Our lives are intertwined with plants. It’s one of the most reciprocal relationships that we have. We may not all be plant lovers, but the earth and people depend on plants for our existence. When most people think of plants,
Pollen Poisoning: How Systemic Insecticides Threaten Bees and Other Pollinators
Every year when the Camellias start to bloom I remember learning about a devastating occurrence of “pollen-poison” while taking a commercial chemical safety class in the early 2000’s. They told us of a small city on the west coast that
Understanding Natives, Non-Natives & Invasive Plants
One of the most important aspects of responsible gardening is understanding what plants we put in our gardens and landscapes. Every plant has a story to tell, and we should make sure – before we plant– that we know all
Eleagnus ~ Plant It Once. Fight It Forever.
Elaeagnus pungens – Silverthorn, Thorny Elaeagnus, or Thorny Olive I can’t tell you how many calls we get each year from customers asking for Elaeagnus—also known as Silverthorn, Thorny Elaeagnus, or Thorny Olive. You see it everywhere—behind subdivisions as a
Georgia Invasive Species – Knowing, Managing, Protecting
As a Georgia Grower… As a Georgia grower, I have to be mindful of harmful things to people, plants, pets, and the environment. That’s my job. I see a lot of talk through online communities about invasive plants and insects,
Native Plants vs. Non-Native Plants – Exploring the Benefits of Each
When it comes to gardening and landscaping, the choice between native plants and non-native plants is a topic of much debate among horticulturists and environmental enthusiasts. Both categories of plants offer unique benefits and considerations that can impact the aesthetics,
Rocks Vs Natural Mulch
Choosing the right mulch for your garden can make a significant impact on its overall health and aesthetics. While organic mulches like wood chips and compost are commonly used, another option gaining popularity is rocks or stones. Rock mulch offers
The Benefits of Wasps in the Garden and How to Divert Them
Wasps are often misunderstood creatures that are notorious for their painful stings. However, these buzzing insects play a crucial role in the ecosystem, especially in the garden. Understanding the benefits of wasps can help us appreciate their presence and learn
Protecting Our Pollinators
Think About This: Pollinators provide 1 out of every 3 bites of food we eat More than 1,000 of all pollinators are vertebrates such as birds, bats, and small mammals. Most (more than 200,000 species) are beneficial insects such as
Healthy Soil – Happy Plants : Why You Should Not Use Landscape Fabric Under Plants
Over the years in our industry, we have seen many things used to prevent weeds. Heavy landscape fabric used under plants is one. We have seen the harm that it can do over time to your soil and to the
The Dangers Of Mis-diagnosing Plant Problems
When it comes to caring for plants, it is a top priority for any gardener to ensure that their plants are healthy. However, many times plant problems are misdiagnosed which leads to the improper use of chemicals or other methods
Creating A Pollinator Garden
Pollinators are animals or insects that move pollen from one flower to another, and they are essential to plant reproduction. In fact, 80% of our food crops are pollinated by insects or animals. Without pollinators, humans and all of Earth’s
Tips for Creating a Bee-Friendly Garden
Plant a Variety of Bee-Friendly Flowers: Bees are attracted to a diverse range of flowers, especially those that are rich in nectar and pollen. There are both native and non-native plants that can provide an appropriate pollen source for bees.
Creating an Earth-Friendly Garden
Gardening is more than just a hobby – it’s an opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment. By adopting eco-friendly practices in your garden, you can contribute to the conservation of natural resources, support local biodiversity, and promote
Feeding The Bees – Camellia Pollinators
Bees & Camellias Fall brings an abundance of bees to the garden with all of the Camellia sasanqua and Camellia Sinensis in full swing. They are one of the last plants of the season to help our bees with enough
Bee’s Tea – Nature’s Helper
Camellia sinensis, also known as the Tea Plant is one of our favorite plants that we grow at Blackcreek Nursery & Garden. We love to make our own tea from our Tea Plants at Blackcreek Tea Farm, but even more rewarding than harvesting our own tea is feeding the bees!
