Wasps – some good some not so good!
Written by Rachel Putnam, Kroening Nature Center Naturalist There is a lot to enjoy outdoors in a Minnesota summer, but one less enjoyable part is having a …
Archive by category Outdoors
News and articles pertaining to our parks, events, gardening, and cooking!
Don’t let it bug you – the importance of insects
Some of the smallest wildlife might be the most impactful. Insects are the largest and most diverse group of organisms on Earth. Nearly 1 million species of …
Lots of rain brings mushrooms
This could turn out to be one of the wettest Junes in recent memory. Rainfall in the Metro area has been moderate to over abundant and as a result you may be …
Fun facts about orioles
Written by Bronwyn Earthman This time of year, look for a bright flash of orange in the sea of new green leaves and you might find yourself watching the …
The benefits of Creeping Charlie and how to control it
My husband planted ground ivy on our boulevard. If you are not familiar with ground ivy it is also known by other names; gill on the ground, Creeping Jenny and …
Enjoy lilacs in May
My horticultural memory is crowded with lilacs. Growing up in the Jordan neighborhood, nearly every yard had at least one lilac bush or tree, many with …
Seasonal wetlands are teeming with life
Written by Rachel Putnam, Kroening Nature Center Naturalist April showers bring more than flowers: spring rains also revitalize small seasonal wetlands. …
Migrating red-winged blackbirds
Written by Sarah Dugan, Kroening Nature Center Naturalist The sights and sounds of migrating birds are a sure sign of spring in Minnesota. Some of the most …
Orchids, exotic and easy to grow
Speaking of house plants, which we were a few months ago, I have finally replaced a few of mine that were old and tired. I have a new African violet which is …
Animals are coming out in March
Written by Bronwyn Earthman, Kroening Center Naturalist Depending on the year, March in Minnesota can mean prolonged winter; icy, snowy and chilly, or it can …