Change is in the air. Cool, crisp change. The first day of Fall is Thursday, September 22nd, and I for one welcome it with open arms. Now, is a busy time in our yards and gardens as we take advantage…

The feathery seed heads captured the gilded light of the setting sun, like wicks of a candle, smoldering above the arching, green grass. Ornamental Grasses are truly versatile. They can add height, texture, color and year round interest. They can…

Drunk upon the sun’s rays, the verdant leaves began to yellow and shed upon her slumped and weary figure.  The unrelenting heat, and sparse rains of late Summer were more than she could bear.  These are the dog days indeed….

Sweet, tender Summer was becoming a bit more brazen and fierce as desiccated leaves scraped and scratched their way along the ground.  Although not technically in a drought, DuPage County and much of Illinois are experiencing abnormally dry conditions.  Granted,…

The Summer lull seemed to come early, along with rising temperatures and a lack of any meaningful rain.  August will soon be upon us, and contrary to popular belief, she would bestow a dynamic landscape of possibility and change.  And…

The sun bore down with great intensity, revealing every imperfection, flaw and anomaly.  Like a great spotlight, she brought attention to our issues and exploited our weaknesses. With the scant amount of rain we’ve received thus far, certain problems are…

Nascent Summer seems to have settled in nicely, replete and contented. Yet her once dewy, fresh face begins to grow sallow and somber under the impossible weight of hot, humid temperatures and lack of meaningful moisture. Her youth, vigor and…

Every flower awaited its turn, like an eager dance partner, as the bees flitted and twirled amongst them. Summer’s arrival finds our gardens and landscapes in full bloom.  It’s no coincidence that Summer’s arrival coincides with National Pollinator Week.  A…

The Cottonwood’s downy seeds fell like snow.  Drifting and swirling upon the air, some suspended momentarily as they sought the perfect landing place.  Soon, they began to snag and accumulate.  It was magical, slightly alarming, and a complete contrast to…

The sun dappled and danced upon the lawn as it beamed through the lush canopy.  Although temperatures have been mostly mild, the sun is still a major factor in our yards and gardens, even if we don’t always feel her…