The generalized reputation of any group is always suspect because the actions of a few members can tint or taint the collective perception of all members. Any assemblage has its saints and sinners, but most of those associated are just going quietly about their assigned task. This concept applies to humans, and also to insects….Read more
Almost everyone wants to help an underdog. Environmentally, one local underdog has six legs as an adult. Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus, are likely the best-known butterflies on the planet because of their remarkable and much publicized ability to migrate thousands of miles across international borders. They then congregate in the same spots year after year….Read more
The recent ample rains will have a positive effect on the plant population, and by default home water bills. The liquid encouragement is the foundation for the growth and development of turf, shrubs and trees. The insect population benefits too. It is getting ready for what should be a banner year, at least for most…Read more
Before initiating construction, it is prudent to consider all the ways to preserve tree root zones when building a home or making improvements on an existing site. There are several reasons why preconstruction study and planning are worth the effort. Healthy trees add significantly to the appraised value of a home. Larger trees take two…Read more
Hair styles are a curious reflection of the culture in which they exist. Some are ornate and complex, with others being simple and, in some cases, completely “natural”. The mane can be straight or wavy, long or short, and in a variety of shapes. Spikes, tufts, swirls and many other forms are displayed by the…Read more
The spring weather has provided enough rain for the plants to burst into growth. Stink bugs, leaf-footed bugs, grasshoppers, all sizes of caterpillars and many more have been enjoying the lush and plentiful dining selections. More than one north Florida homeowner or gardener has noticed the sudden appearance of a hungry pest species which is…Read more
As the weather warms and summer beckons, the landscape reshapes daily. New blooms pop out and are soon followed by fruit, seeds or nuts. Some are useful to the human residents, but many are eaten by insects. As with people, there are some bugs that are picky about their meals. Panhandle Florida has some native…Read more
While the official beginning of summer is still weeks away, the temperature is warming and spring break activities are everywhere in panhandle Florida. While the major home landscape and garden chores are ongoing, for many the springtime cleanup of raking leaves and pine straw has been done for weeks. A few hours here and there…Read more
The year’s fourth month is the time for grasses to emerge and expand their respective territories. Some are native and well behaved, but others are not and will grow aggressively, if conditions meet their needs. Torpedograss (Panicum repens) is a perennial grass with a creeping but forceful growth pattern and sharply pointed rhizomes. Stems are…Read more
The calendar says April and there have been several days in the 80s. While heatwaves have not been the norm recently, the humidity percentages have been in the low 20s, especially after fronts have come through. The landscape, along with people and pets, may reflect the results of exposure to a lack of moisture in…Read more
