CATEGORIES

Hummingbird tales

EACH EVENING during our family vacation in Ridgedale, Missouri, a female ruby-throated hummingbird passed through the branches of a tree just off our porch. I brought my camera out one night in anticipation of her arrival and, sure enough, there she was. I hung over the railing to grab a series of images. The light and the lovely bird were amazing and the blooms looked like fireworks. It's a great memory from a wonderful trip with family.

Easy Breezy Gardening

Seven tips for a beautiful low-maintenance yard with minimal fuss and effort.

Hummingbird Magnets

Attract these busy fliers with nectar-packed salvias.

A Perfect Match

Everyday Miracles

Born to Move

As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy and well-behaved dog. Here's how to find the right exercise for your pup and why it's important for them to get active.

Greet Grosbeaks

Attract rose-breasted grosbeaks with insects, fruits, seeds and plenty of room to perch.

Flights of Fancy

Painted lady butterflies rival monarchs in their migratory journeys.

Nature Reflections

Readers look back at their spring birding highlights.

New Plants for 2022

Find fresh flower varieties to spruce up your landscape.

Hanging Pretty

Design and create baskets brimming with gorgeous blooms and foliage.

FOR THE LOVE OF Mom

In honor of Mother's Day, readers reflect on plants with special meaning.

Get to know Goldfinches

American goldfinches may be common, but they're full of surprises.

A Thrill of Color

Buntings always stand out in a crowd-learn where to find them and the field marks that set these birds apart.

Test Case

The food from Fukushima has been deemed safe for consumption. But is the name still radioactive?

Easy as One, Two, Tree!

Seven things to do before adding a new sapling to your property.

Eyes on Irises

There's more to this floral family than can be seen in the backyard.

A true blue Trio

Find out which of the three North American bluebirds call your area home, and learn how to win them over with the right food and habitat.

Create a Safe a Bird Haven

"Dish out seeds in a healthy environment."

Along the Water's Edge

"Known for their fondness for life in wet habitats, wading birds can be found near lakes, swamps and more. Dive into these amazing reader photos."

Busy Bees

Fuzzy, gentle and efficient, mason bees are champion pollinators. Here's why you want to attract them to your garden.

Hints of Spring

"Readers photograph birds in thawing backyards and parks."

CREATING WINTER Interest

8 bold plants sure to provide a wonderland of color, form and beauty.

Dive into the Facts

Learn about anhingas, the sleek birds that hunt underwater.

Degrees of Hibernation

How garden visitors snooze away the coldest months.

Berry Delight

Use firethorn sprigs to welcome guests this holiday season.

Cold Weather Cuisine

Choose high-energy foods to keep backyard birds well fed during winter.

Pet-Safe Greenery

Eye-catching houseplants that won't harm curious dogs or cats.

Birding In A Winter Wonderland

There's no need to go into hibernation this season. Use these easy tricks to see even more fliers when the mercury drops.

Why Pet Insurance Belongs in Your Kitten Kit

Most of us send our kittens off to their new homes accompanied by a packet of information: food samples, toys, vet records and lots more essentials and goodies. We want our kittens to get off on the right foot! Unfortunately, with the rapidly increasing cost of vet care, there are sure to be unforeseen expenses as the kitten matures, and very few of us educate new owners on how to manage the risk of major vet bills down the road.

What You Don't Know About Burmese

The Chatty Cathy of Cats … Burmese, Please!!!