CATEGORIES

Zoom in on - Butterflies

Photographing the fast fliers requires patience, but these snapshots from readers prove it's worth the wait.

A woodpecker's world

From tree-climbing downies to ground foraging flickers to sap-loving sapsuckers, woodpeckers delight and entertain us with their unique markings, fascinating flight patterns and distinctive drumming sounds. Here are fun facts to enrich your viewing of these dashing birds.

Dogged Sustainability

What does it really take to make a brand eco-friendly? For Shine Pet Food, it meant sweating every CO2 molecule-and making hard, expensive decisions.

Ask the Experts

Solving hummingbird mysteries, plant problems and much more.

mini marvels

HUMMINGBIRDS HAVE TRAITS THAT MAKE THEM ENTERTAINING, BUT THOSE SAME QUALITIES HELP THEM THRIVE.

perennial nectar favorites

Attract more hummingbirds year after year with flowers that require less time, maintenance and money.

Small and Feisty Fliers

Meet Calliope hummingbirds and attract them with native plants.

Defending Their Turf

Why hummingbirds guard their territories so fiercely.

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.