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All About Easter Lillies

In springtime, Easter lilies are a common sight in grocery stores, churches, and on dining room tables. With their large, white, trumpet-shaped blooms and delicate fragrance, they are a true symbol of the Easter season. But did you know that spring isn’t the only time these plants can be enjoyed? If you want to keep…

The Plight of the Monarch and What You Can Do to Help

A welcome visitor to gardens, and sure sign summer is coming to an end when seen in large groups, monarch butterflies are a staple of St. Louis scenery and landscapes across the country. But their numbers are dwindling, scientists say. Shrinking Numbers and the Endangered Species Act Recently, the monarch butterfly has been in the…

Spotlight on Science: Tariq Stevart

Tariq StevartAssociate Scientist, Africa and Madagascar Program When Tariq Stevart was around 10 years old, his grandfather took him on a trip to Switzerland, where they climbed mountains and discovered alpine flora, in particular orchids. It sparked a lifelong interest for Stevart, who grew up in Belgium and always admired the beautiful orchids of Europe….

Dr. Anna Isabel Mulford: Botanical Groundbreaker

In 1895, Anna Isabel Mulford would become the first student—of any gender—to earn a PhD from Washington University.

Top 10 Plants for a Sensory Experience

From the enticing scent of lemon verbena to the smooth texture of a pansy petal, there are so many possibilities for sensory exploration in your garden. The Therapeutic Horticulture team at the Missouri Botanical Garden has compiled their top ten plants for a sensory experience. Click on the scientific names below to learn how to…

The History of the Shamrock in Ireland (and How to Grow Your Own American Version)

Every March, many storefronts, restaurants, and homes turn green as Irish Americans celebrate their heritage through St. Patrick’s Day. Of course, many without Irish ancestry join in the celebration, too. During the St. Patrick’s season, the shamrock becomes a universal symbol of all things Irish. And rightfully so—the shamrock is the national plant of Ireland…

In Praise of Parsley

As the St. Louis Herb Society prepares its first-ever online herb sale, the group sings the praises of parsley, its herb of the year. “My goal is to bring parsley back as a valued and important herb in cooking. It is too easily dismissed,” says Anne Cori, Herb Society member and owner of Kitchen Conservatory….

The St. Louis Herb Society Celebrates 80 Years with First-ever Online Herb Sale

The St. Louis Herb Society marks its 80th birthday in 2021 in a way its founders could have never imagined back in early 1941—with an online sale of more than 8,000 herbs and pollinator plants. The St. Louis Herb Society Online-Only Herb Salestlouisherbsociety.orgMarch 26–April 2 | Online shopping for Garden membersApril 9–16 | Online shopping…

Protecting Plants from Fungus Gnats

As you wait for the winter to thaw so you can get back to your garden, you may be paying more attention to your houseplants. And, it’s possible, dealing with pest issues. One very common plant pest if the fungus gnat. Infestations of these small, flying insects can range in severity from just being a…

Your Amaryllis Can Bloom Again!

Amaryllis are a popular holiday plant because when potted indoors, they tend to bloom around Christmas. Plus, the red variety adds some festive color to any room. While their blooms fade after holidays, the plant’s life is far from over. In fact, if cared for properly, amaryllis can bloom over and over. All About Amaryllis…

Efficiency + Comfort = Good Investment!

Our city home was built over three eras. The original four rooms have sheltered families since about 1870 — that’s one hundred and fifty years! A kitchen and indoor bathroom were added sometime between then and the 1940s, when a new two-story wing was constructed. Property records tell us the first occupant, a Dutch tulip…

Three Black Scientists Overlooked by History

Though often overlooked by historians, several Black scientists are among the most spectacular contributors to horticulture and agricultural history. Faced with unique but extraordinary challenges, Percy Julian, Marie Clark Taylor, and Edmond Albius all contributed significantly to botany, horticulture, and humankind through their experimentation and exploration with plants. As we celebrate Black History Month, we…