Across Europe, one tiny insect has transformed entire city landscapes, weakened iconic trees, and forced municipalities into costly annual treatments. That insect is the European chestnut moth (Cameraria ohridella) — a leaf mining pest that aggressively attacks horse chestnut trees and spreads with explosive speed. While not currently found in the United States, this pest poses a serious threat if…
Interesting facts about nature and life in Cleveland, Ohio. 🐦 Cleveland sits on a major migratory bird highway. More than 300 species pass through the Lake Erie corridor each year. Even tiny backyard trees and shrubs become rest stops for warblers, finches, and hummingbirds. “Lights Out Cleveland” is a volunteer-driven bird migration monitoring program that protects nocturnally migrating birds in…
Last year’s red legged lanternfly outbreak in Cleveland caught many homeowners off guard. Entire neighborhoods saw trees dripping sap, covered in black sooty mold, and swarmed by insects. For some properties, the damage was so severe that trees became dangerous, unstable, and had to be removed before they collapsed. If you’re wondering whether your own trees might be at risk,…
Biodrainage is becoming one of the most effective and sustainable solutions for homeowners dealing with wet yards, standing water, clay soil drainage issues, and high water tables. Unlike French drains or sump pumps, biodrainage uses trees and shrubs to remove excess water naturally through transpiration. If you’re searching for how biodrainage works, best trees for biodrainage, or natural drainage solutions…
Your yard doesn’t have to stop at “stump removed.” We now offer landscape design services to help you transform that newly cleared space into something beautiful, functional, and tailored to your property. What’s Included: Schematic layout of the redesigned area Detailed project description outlining the design concept Plant selection based on lighting, drainage, and soil type Material recommendations for borders,…
The emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), commonly called the ash borer beetle, is one of the most destructive invasive insects ever introduced to North America. Since its arrival, it has killed tens of millions of ash trees across the United States and Canada, reshaping forests, neighborhoods, and city landscapes. What Is the Ash Borer Beetle? The ash borer beetle is…
Biodrainage is one of the most natural and effective ways to manage excess groundwater on a property. But here’s the part most homeowners never hear: a plant’s ability to move water isn’t constant throughout its life. Transpiration—the process of pulling water from the soil and releasing it through the leaves—rises, peaks, and eventually declines as a tree ages. Understanding these…
🌱 Organic Garden Guide A thriving compost pile is more than decomposing yard waste — it’s a living ecosystem. Beneath the surface, a diverse community of visible organisms works together to break down organic matter and create nutrient‑rich humus your garden will love. Why These Creatures Matter Seeing these organisms in your compost pile is a sign of health and…
Did you come across any caterpillars with red and blue dots on their backs this summer? Did you come across any caterpillars with red and blue dots on their backs this summer? Ohio’s trees are facing a stubborn invader: the spongy moth. This pest has been spreading across Northeast Ohio, and its damage is becoming more visible in neighborhoods from…
little to no direct sun Great for tight Cleveland side yards, north facing courtyards, and areas shaded by nearby homes. Perennials & Groundcovers Hostas — the go to for deep shade Ferns (lady fern, ostrich fern) — lush, woodland feel Foamflower (Tiarella) — delicate blooms, spreads gently Lungwort (Pulmonaria) — spotted leaves + early spring flowers Sweet woodruff — fragrant,…
