Horticulture
Gardeners Who Influenced American Culture
Gardening has always been more than soil and seeds. It’s a way of shaping how people see their surroundings, how they care for their neighborhoods, and how they imagine the future. Long before environmental policy had a name, women across the country were already doing the work — planting wildflowers, organizing clubs, distributing seeds, and … Read more
Another Successful Flower Show!
Congratulations to our blue ribbon and rosette winners. If you see any errors in this list, please contact Sue Conat with the information. I think everyone was a winner- you all made it a beautiful show!” Sue
Still Time to Create a Beautiful Container Garden
Start with a hardy perennial with beautiful foliage. Transplant it into a large container. Add summer annuals (on sale everywhere in July) and Voila! Beauty for this season and the beginning of next spring. Adding hardy perennials gives a base to a container planting that you intend to have for many seasons. Pick one with … Read more
Books of the Month-February 2026
This month, we are going from a Japanese theme to a book about a local treasure!
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 … Read more
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 … Read more
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 … Read more
Beneficial Insects – Braconid Wasp
Braconid Wasp Tomato hornworm covered with white cocoons of Braconid Wasp Photo Taken by Amy Nelson at Crispe House, Plainwell, MI. While gardening at Crispe House this week we came across a Tomato Hornworm in the vegetable garden near the back of the house next to the drive way. I found the Tomato Hornworm pictured to … Read more
