Enhancing Our Environment

Through the Lens of a Gardener

A slide show of images provided by members of the Kalamazoo Garden Council, created by “Random Button Pusher” for the KGC 2018 annual meeting at the request of my sister-in-law, who is a member.

Those Pesky Deer

For years I have had a huge problem with deer in my yard.  As you are aware, they eat whatever they darn please.  Two years ago at Wedel’s Spring Expo there was a booth with two guys from Messina Wildlife Management.  I spent quite a bit of time talking with them before I bought their …

Invasive Plants – Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica,  an invasive species is prevalent in Kalamazoo County.  It spreads easily and seems to be incredibly indestructable.  The City of Kalamazoo hired Hannah Hudson last summer as the tall grass and weeds inspector. She has a background in natural resources, but had never heard of Japanese knotweed. She quickly learned its …

Invasive Plant – Swallow-wort

Black and Pale Swallow-worts Cynanchum louiseae ( Vincetoxicum nigrum) and Cynanchum rossicum ( Vincetoxicum rossicum) Plant Threatens Michigan Monarchs Swallow-wort can be confused with Milkweed by Monarch butterflies because their seed pods are similar.  This Michigan decorative garden plant, brought to the United States during the 19th century, has affected how Monarchs develop.  For more …

Pollinators – Mason Bee

Mason Bee The tiny mason bee is environmentally healthy, simple and fun.  Mason bees are extraordinary pollinators.  These bees are very efficient, 200-300 females can pollinate an entire acre.  They are native to most of North America.  There are approximately 150 types of mason bees. According to Judy Beaudette writing on the website, ecolandscaping.org, “They are tunnel-nesting, …