The birds featured in the video “The Birds Part 1” are Cave Swallows. The Cave Swallow, a species known for its agility in flight, often makes its home within the entrances of caves, cohabiting with bats. These birds have adapted to human-altered landscapes by nesting under bridges and culverts, expanding their range beyond their traditional habitats. They are skilled hunters of flying insects, which they catch with impressive aerial maneuvers, and they build their nests from mud and bat guano, cementing them onto walls and ledges. The Cave Swallow’s ability to adapt to changing environments is a testament to its resilience and ingenuity. Cheers

A flower resilient enough to thrive in the drought conditions of zone 4 is our featured flower of the month Dense Blazing Star. The Dense Blazing Star, scientifically known as Liatris spicata, is a perennial wildflower native to the eastern and midwestern regions of North America. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, slightly acidic soil, and is known for its striking spires of purple or white flowers that bloom from summer to fall. Cultivation involves planting corms in the spring after the last frost, with adequate spacing for growth. This hardy plant is a favorite among gardeners for its low maintenance and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Cheers

I started this perennial flower garden 10 years ago. Enjoy!

Asclepias, commonly known as milkweed, has a rich history and is vital for the ecosystem, particularly for the monarch butterfly. Named after the Greek god of healing, Asclepius, due to its medicinal properties, Asclepias is native to the Americas and boasts over one hundred species. Cultivation of Asclepias involves full sun exposure and well-drained soil, and while it’s a hardy plant, it’s also known for its rapid spread through self-seeding. Its importance to the monarch’s lifecycle cannot be overstated, as it serves as the sole food source for the larvae and a nectar source for the adults, making its conservation and thoughtful cultivation essential for maintaining biodiversity. Cheers

Roses are blooming in zone 4. The rose, with its rich fragrance and variety of forms, has a history that spans millions of years. Fossil records suggest that rose-like plants existed in the northern hemisphere between 33 and 23 million years ago. Cultivation of the rose began in earnest in China around 3,000 BCE, where they were treasured for their beauty and use in perfumery and medicine. Over time, roses spread across the world, with significant developments in hybridization occurring in Europe after the introduction of Asian species. Today, the rose continues to captivate gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike, symbolizing love, secrecy, and beauty across cultures. Cheers

I’ve decided to make Penstemon our featured flower of the month. Penstemons, also known as Beardtongues, are a charming addition to any garden, originating from North America with over 250 species. These perennials are celebrated for their tubular flowers that attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds. They thrive in full sun to part shade and prefer well-drained soil, blooming from spring to summer. Cultivation involves planting in a sunny spot and ensuring good drainage, with some species being drought-tolerant once established. For a diverse garden that supports local wildlife, penstemons are a delightful choice. Cheers

Today I discovered the flower penstemon in my garden and I did not plant it. Birds play a pivotal role in the dispersal of seeds, which is a fundamental process in the propagation of plant species. As they consume seeds, their digestive systems break down the seed coatings, enhancing the seeds’ chances of germination upon being excreted in new locations. This natural mechanism not only aids in plant reproduction but also contributes significantly to the biodiversity of ecosystems. Through this symbiotic relationship, birds assist in maintaining ecological balance and promoting the growth and spread of various plant species. Cheers

The daylily, known by its botanical name Hemerocallis, is a perennial flower that has captivated gardeners for centuries. Originating from Asia, the daylily was introduced to Europe in the 1500s and has since become a staple in gardens worldwide due to its adaptability and vibrant blooms. Cultivation of daylilies is straightforward, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, and they are appreciated for their ability to attract butterflies while being low-maintenance, disease-free, and pest-resistant. Cheers