Articles
Gardening Articles
Research-based horticulture information to help keep your plants and gardens thriving.
Tree Species Recommended for Fall Planting
This article contains a compilation of tree species recommended for fall planting vs. waiting until spring.
Elm Zigzag Sawfly
The elm zigzag sawfly is an invasive sawfly that attacks elm trees. Populations were detected in Wisconsin for the first time in July 2024 and were quickly found in several counties across the state. In many cases, damage may be minor, but this invasive pest does have the potential to cause significant defoliation of elm trees.
5 Steps to Plant a Tree
Interested in planting a tree on your property? Take a look at this tree planting article to learn best practices.
Fascinating Fasciation
This physiological disorder, called fasciation, can occur in almost any plant part, but is most noticeable in the stems or inflorescences.
Blister Canker
What is blister canker? Blister canker (also known as nailhead canker) is a potentially lethal disease that primarily affects apple and crabapple trees. Other trees and shrubs grown in Wisconsin that can be affected by the disease include American elm, honey locust, hornbeam, magnolia, mountain-ash (rowan), oak, pear, and serviceberry. What does blister canker look […]
Safely Using Produce from Flooded Gardens
After flooding occurs, gardeners often raise questions about the safety of consuming produce from gardens that were under water for a day or two.
Beyond Birdfeeders: How to be a Bird-friendly Gardener
Birds play countless roles in healthy ecosystems and in helping humans—which is why preserving bird diversity helps everyone. These roles include ecosystem services such as seed dispersal, pest control and pollination. In addition, birds are entertaining to watch, connect us to nature, and seeing and hearing birds can boost our moods!
Alternatives to Lawn: Groundcovers
Groundcover plants are low growing perennials that spread by trailing stems and cover an area of the ground. Groundcovers provide an excellent alternative for turfgrasses in shade and other tough areas in the landscape. Established groundcovers require relatively low maintenance, outcompete weeds, reduce soil erosion, provide habitat for pollinators, and enhance aesthetic beauty in the landscape.
Houseplant Care
Houseplants offer many benefits beyond beautifying a space. Not only can they improve the air quality in your home, they also can improve your mental well-being and reduce stress through basic care techniques.
Marigolds
Marigolds are highly regarded for their vibrant flowers, minimal maintenance requirements, and ease of cultivation. Found in gardens worldwide, these flowers are cherished valued for their visual allure, cultural significance, and application in integrated pest management.
Trees and Shrubs for Diversity and Climate Change
Find suggestions for which trees and shrubs to plant to increase diversity in a changing climate.
Peony
Peonies are a perennial garden favorite, celebrated for their large, fragrant blooms and exceptional longevity. From the wide selection of growth forms and varieties, peonies offer lush foliage and eye-catching blossoms, making them a centerpiece in any garden setting.
