Joanne Tyree

Every spring, many of us in Chicago’s suburbs experience the same emotional roller coaster. A stretch of warm, sunny days arrives. Lawns start greening. Buds appear on trees. Garden centers fill up. We think: “This is it—spring is finally here.” And then, winter reminds us who’s in charge. That sudden return of cold is called false spring , and it’s becoming one of the biggest challenges for gardeners in our area. 🌸 What Is False Spring? A false spring happens when we get unusually warm...

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show appreciation for the special gardeners in your life. If your loved one spends hours nurturing plants, digging in the soil, and dreaming of their next garden project, a thoughtful gift that supports their passion will truly brighten their day. Choosing a gift that connects with their love for gardening not only shows you care but also encourages their hobby in a meaningful way. Here are some creative and practical Valentine gift ideas that will make...

Winter can be a challenging time for wildlife. As temperatures drop and natural shelters become scarce, many animals seek refuge in gardens and yards. Providing safe, warm shelter in your garden not only helps local wildlife survive the cold months but also supports biodiversity and creates a lively, natural environment year-round. This post explores practical ways to offer winter shelter for animals in your garden and how you can make a real difference during the colder season. A wooden...