Midwest Regional Reports

  • Midwest Regional Reports

    Setting Up a Three-Bin Compost System

    The value of having compost available for use in the home garden is immeasurable, and the convenience of creating that compost on-site for instant availability adds to the reward. Of…

  • Whorled Milkweed
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Native Plants for Summer Interest in the Midwest

    Whorled Milkweed Asclepias verticillata Zones: 3–9 Size: 1 to 2½ feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; adaptable to a wide range of…

  • bumblebee on lacecap hydrangea
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Common Hydrangea Pests and Diseases: Identification, Prevention, and Treatment

    As one of the most popular flowering shrubs for the modern landscape, it is no surprise that we are now seeing more evidence of various diseases and insect damage on…

  • native plants for poor soil
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Native Plants That Do Well in Poor Soils

    If only every garden was blessed with free-draining, loamy soil with the perfect pH and balance of nutrients. Life would be so easy and the choice of plants gloriously abundant.…

  • Blue Barlow Columbine
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Plants That Take Sun and Shade for the Midwest

      1. Magical® Pinkerbell Smooth Hydrangea Name: Hydrangea arborescens ‘Kolpinbel’ Zones: 4–9 Size: 3 to 5 feet tall and wide Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; average to rich, moist,…

  • midwest moon garden
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Moon Garden Inspiration

    My wife and I are both avid gardeners, but we typically only find time to sit and enjoy the landscape at dusk or after sunset. To maximize the evening appeal…

  • Flame Thrower eastern redbud
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Shopping-List Plants for the Midwest

    If you’ve run into a garden rut, we’ve got you covered. It’s time to start planning for your first trip to the local nursery or garden center. What plants will…

  • sloped garden densely planted
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Design Ideas for Managing Rainwater in Your Garden

    Whenever I am working to resolve water problems in a landscape, I must acknowledge that water will always win. The best we can do is creatively direct it toward the…

  • Garfield Park Conservatory
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Have You Visited the Garfield Park Conservatory?

    The winter doldrums are a reality in the Midwest, especially for gardeners, but an immersive plant adventure at your local conservatory is a sure way to lift your spirits. Fortunately,…

  • spring planting plan midwest
    Midwest Regional Reports

    Spring Planting Plan for the Midwest

    In her article "Spring Planting Ideas," Michelle Gervais beautifully illustrates the magical time that is the start of spring: "Our winter-weary spirits lift as hints of green begin to appear.…