Accent on Natural Landscaping

Donna VanBuecken

Why Do Leaves Change Colors?

I love the fall season. I love to watch the change in color of the warm-season native plants -- forbs, grasses, trees, and shrubs. I've always known the change in color had something to do with the chlorophyll in the plants, but I thought it was about time I learned what happens to create the … [Read more...]

Virginia Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum)

I created our wooded area many years ago. I have been transplanting from plant rescues and native plant sales, but this one came on its own. Virginia waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum). Although often considered a weed, it is a native plant and a godsend for our early pollinators looking … [Read more...]

No Mow May — What?

Wonder why some lawns don't get mowed until June? May is the start of the pollinator season, but only if there are enough plants to pollinate and host. Read Here's What to Know About the "No Mow May" Movement. Of particular note are what Doug Tallamy and Tamson Yeh said in this article. Having … [Read more...]

The Nature of Oaks

Which keystone native plant supports 511 species of moths and butterflies that help feed birds and mammals? Oak trees. How many acorns might a blue jay gather and bury each fall? 4,500. What is masting? A periodic event (commonly every two to five years) when oak trees produce a much larger … [Read more...]

WOFVAC 2023 Native Plant, Tree and Shrub Sale

Hi, All! — I'm finished with the knee replacements, and I anticipate going up north during June for the blooming of the pink lady’s slippers (Cypripedium acaule). I'm really looking forward to it because I wasn't able to go there last year. During the next few months, I will check in occasionally, … [Read more...]

OVER-THE-COUNTER NATIVE PLANT SALE MAY 21

Hi, all -- It is the third week and I am doing fine. They had to remove the partial knee and replace with the total knee. So it is taking longer. WOFVA's 22nd Native Plant, Tree and Shrub Sale As we promised, we invite you to join us for the over-the-counter native plants sale. The Wild Ones Fox … [Read more...]