Raking Leaves? 5 Reasons to Not Throw Them Out!

Raking Leaves? 5 Reasons to Not Throw Them Out!

The fall yard chore of raking leaves, or even worse, blowing leaves with a gas powered blower, isn’t all its cracked up to be. I am hearing more and more calls to “leave the leaves”! As I work hard to convert my San Antonio, Texas yard to a pollinator and insect haven, I’m learning about the important role that leaves play at this time of year.

5 Great Reasons to Grow Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
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5 Great Reasons to Grow Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

The first thing you will notice about Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) is its showy blooms. Its ball-shaped flowers that resemble little white pom-poms are beautiful and unique. Upon closer inspection, you’ll see that the fragrant flowers are alive with pollinators!

5 Important Reasons to Not Plant Ligustrum (Privet)

5 Important Reasons to Not Plant Ligustrum (Privet)

If there is one plant you should avoid at the nursery at all costs, it is Ligustrum (also known as Privet). If you already have it growing in your yard, you may want to seriously consider taking it out.

Why? Because Ligustrum is a highly invasive non-native plant that is taking over wooded areas throughout the Eastern United States, crowding out native species and drastically reducing biodiversity in those areas.