Filtering by tag: consumer horticulture ✕

Backyard Sustainability Series starting at the NHC Arboretum each Wednesday from May 6 to June 10

Backyard Sustainability Series – Spring 2026

This six-part educational series explores practical, science-based approaches to creating more sustainable home landscapes in southeastern North Carolina. Each session features a local expert and…

Early handling and socialization turn curious chicks into gentle backyard companions that are easy to manage and a joy to keep.

From Coop to Kitchen: A Guide to Starting Your Backyard Flock

Spring is in the air, and like many of you, I visited my local farm supply shop this weekend to pick up compost for my garden. As soon as I walked in, I was distracted by the sounds of little peeps…

Seed packets are like instruction manuals. Follow directions closely for best germination success

From Packet to Plant: Understanding Seed Terminology

This past summer, I visited Bald Head Island for the first time, and I was charmed by drifts of prairie coneflower, Ratibida columnifera, that were blooming in the medians. These little red and…

Tabletop work In Lewis Greenhouse

Green Socializing

At the N.C. Cooperative Extension, New Hanover County Center and Arboretum, the Lewis Greenhouse is a vibrant, thriving sanctuary. It isn’t just a structure of glass and steel; it is a living…

House plants that are thriving in winter will continue to grow and bloom, like this spider plant producing pups

Winter Care Tips for Healthy Houseplants

-Written by Therapeutic Horticulture Program Assistant, Kadence BaumgardnerAs temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, our beloved houseplants require a shift in care. Winter can be a tricky…

EMG volunteers wrapping tree seedlings for TreeFest participant

TreeFest Success - 2026 Impact

Each year, local organizations come together for TreeFest, a tree seedling giveaway dedicated to rebuilding our native tree canopy. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers and participants, we continue to…

Red amaryllis with three blooms on two green stalks in a decorative bulb vase

What to Do With Your Wax-Dipped Amaryllis After the Holidays

If a wax-dipped amaryllis added cheer to your home this holiday season, you’ve enjoyed one of the easiest festive plants to care for: vibrant blooms with no watering or potting required. But once the…

Larval trap in a shady area.

Managing Mosquitos Using Larval Dunks

Mosquitoes are a common nuisance during the warmer months here in coastal North Carolina. Not only do they interfere with our outdoor activities, but they can also be a significant public health pest…

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Gardening & Community Resources

Explore these reliable, research-backed resources to enhance your gardening skills, engage with community programs, and find opportunities to participate in horticulture and environmental…

It is common to find mushrooms growing on down trees (photo taken by Gabriella de Souza)

Mushrooms in My Yard: Why That’s Good News

At last, autumn has arrived and the warm coastal air is starting to cool. The rain and humidity have stuck around for now, which means mushrooms and other fungi are likely to extend their stay.…