May 1, 2022

Leaves of Three

Remember the old adage, leaves of three, let it be OR leaflets three, quickly flee? These proverbs were meant to help identify poison ivy (above pic) but they contribute to confusion since many plants we encounter are trifoliate (i.e., a compound leaf with three parts or leaflets). The confusion frequently involves another common woody native, boxelder. Why? Frankly it is a novice mistake since the two species are quite different. Let's distinguish and discuss them. Boxelder

Rant of the Month

Unfortunately, most people know very little about plants and gardening, including many "professionals" employed to design, choose, install and maintain landscapes. This page spotlights specific issues with commentary on remedy or recommendation for course of action. Examples are numerous and easy to find, rarely requiring me to travel far from home. Hopefully, these postings will make the task more difficult. I also feature seasonally appropriate topics and focus on species and issues to help educate.

I schedule the new rant to post at one minute after midnight on the first day of each month.

Rant of the Month

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