2024 Flower Show Results
Here are the results from the 2024 NGC Standard Flower Show that was presented by the Kalamazoo Garden Council in September.
Why Plant Native?
If you've heard about the movement to plant more native species but wonder why is it important, the following resources will answer your questions!
Dr Barkman’s DIY Deer Repellent
Dr Todd Barkman, professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Western Michigan University,shares his deer repellent recipe with us.
June 17-23, 2024 Michigan Pollinator Week
Governor Whitmer declares June 17-23, 2024 to be Michigan Pollinator Week
Endangered and Threatened Species in Michigan
Dr. Todd Barkman shares a list from the MSU Extension of Endangered and Threatened Species in Michigan.
About the Hazel Wirick Scholarship
An annual scholarship in memory of founder and past president, Hazel Wirick, is presented to a WMU student.
The Importance of Pollinators by Dr. Jeanette Meyer
Did you know that 1/3 of our food is dependent on pollinators which are threatened by climate change?
Western Hills Garden at KGC House
A photo of the Western Hills garden is featured on the cover of the MGC Garden Gate newsletter.
Memory Lane Dedication
The Memorial Garden honors and remembers those who have contributed so much to this organization and to this property.
What are Keystone Native Plants and Why are They so Important?
14% of native plants (the keystones) support 90% of butterfly and moth lepidoptera species.
Eco-friendly Tableware
The Council Shop is now stocked with eco-friendly tableware for purchase.
Asian Jumping Worms
Jan Keys, our Horticulture Chairman, warned us to be aware of Asian Jumping Worms that could be in our gardens. They are lighter in color than familiar earthworms, have a band that goes around their body and they are very, almost hyperactive compared to regular earthworms. Unfortunately, they are incredibly invasive and destructive. They will …
Honey’s Babies: Because Everything Good Has a Beginning
Petal Pusher’s member Linda Ricca chronicles the nest life of two baby hummingbirds in this charming slideshow and the graphic talents of fellow garden club member Andy Stork enhance the enjoyment!
Plants Bees Like Best
A new resource for finding out what to plant to attract pollinators. What Plants Bees Like Best
Spring Blooming Shrubs
Excerpt from GardenGate.com by Garden Gate Staff
Tri-Refresher, June 5, Lansing
I would like to encourage all club members to consider attending this Tri-Refresher associated with the MGC state meeting in June. The price is right and the opportunity for education fantastic. Jeanette Meyer, President KGC
Giant Swallowtail
Scientific name: Papillo cresphontes
Higher classification: Swallowtail
Three Surprising Solutions to Climate Change
August Environment Report by Denise Clegg
What can we do to preserve pollinators?
According to the website http://metroparent.com there are some rather easy actions that we can take to preserve pollinators in our gardens. Stop buying plants pretreated with neonicotinoids. Treated pants are primarily sold at big box stores. These insecticides are sprayed onto seeds and are effective for up to 10 weeks. They were seen as less …
Invasive Garlic Mustard
Garlic mustard is an exotic invasive plant from Europe...
Top Five Environmental Concerns for 2019
The top 5 environmental concerns for 2019 are: Biodiversity Water Deforestation Pollution Climate Change Biodiversity is the complex system of the environment having an impact directly and indirectly on every other thing. In the March report I reported on the stone fly, a seemingly insignificant insect. I reported on that to demonstrate how a small …
Having a Healthy Lawn While Being Environmentally Sound
April Environmental Report written by Denise Clegg My husband has often said he didn’t go to college to be a grass farmer. However, much of his leisure time is spent taking care of the lawn. The perfect lawn is not a priority in retirement. So, I’m hoping that I can impart some wisdom from the …
Consequences of Seemingly Harmless Activity
Are you planning a vacation this year? Going to do some hiking?