12 Books for Naturalists in the New Year
There are so many books to read, so many possibilities. But which ones are good? See the HerbSpeak recommendations for the upcoming months!
12 Books for Naturalists in the New Year
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Ancient Plants from the Dawn of Time
Ancient Plants from the Dawn of Time
Millions of years ago, plants were the foundation of life as we know it today. So which ones are still around, and which are extinct? The answers might surprise you.
How to Connect with Nature
How to Connect with Nature
The routine of modern life can be toxic to human spirituality in any form - no matter what religion you do or do not prescribe to - especially when it comes to our connection to nature. In this HerbSpeak article, you’ll learn how to connect (or re-connect) with...
Featured in Botany
American Ginseng – Panax quinquefolius (Plant Profile)
American Ginseng – Panax quinquefolius (Plant Profile)
Ginseng has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant, known across the globe for its powerful properties, but did you know that ginseng is also native to the Western world?
Unfortunately, this plant is endangered and facing extinction in the wild, so learning about the plant, its habitat, and the significance of its situation is critical to conservation efforts.
Red Oak VS White Oak: A Beginner Botanist’s Guide
Red Oak VS White Oak: A Beginner Botanist’s Guide
You might think that an oak is an oak, and there’s nothing else to it – but as a beginner botanist or curious naturalist, you might start to take a second look at those trees, however, and notice that they are all different. Red and white oaks are not just individual trees, but separate groups that contain different species. Fortunately, there's an easy way to tell them apart...
How Do Ferns Reproduce?
How Do Ferns Reproduce?
Ferns have captured the imagination of many scientists’, with many aspects of these unique plants becoming a dissertation research subject. Some people have even dedicated their lives to studying the subject, always finding more questions than answers. Without diving too deep into the weeds with this subject, how exactly do ferns reproduce? Let's find out...
Featured in Environment
What Is a Plant Sanctuary?
What Is a Plant Sanctuary?
You’ve probably heard about wildlife sanctuaries, which are swaths of land dedicated to providing habitat for certain species of wildlife. Lesser known, however, are plant sanctuaries. These sanctuaries serve the same purpose, but on a more foundational scale.
The Threat to Our Birds in 2020 and Beyond
The Threat to Our Birds in 2020 and Beyond
Chances are, while you are in lockdown, you’ve popped up a bird feeder, or you’ve taken to birdwatching, even if it’s off-and-on from your new home office window. You might have even found yourself asking “have these brightly-colored birds always been here?” They...
Springtime Sighting of a Vulnerable Butterfly, the West Virginia White
Springtime Sighting of a Vulnerable Butterfly, the West Virginia White
One spring morning, eight botanists packed into carpools and drove to a small town on the far edge of western Massachusetts to find a small white butterfly, Pieris virginensis, and its host plant, Cardamine concatenata and C. diphylla.
Featured in Gardening
(Top 20) Plants Safe for Cats and Dogs
(Top 20) Plants Safe for Cats and Dogs
Keeping houseplants is a hobby that is on the rise in recent years. The more time you spend at home, the more you want to fill your home with beautiful foliage. In fact, plants are great at helping reduce the stress we experience on a daily basis. But what do you do if you also have pets?
What is a Child Garden?
What is a Child Garden?
The focus is often on creating an immersive and engaging experience that is tailored to the needs and interests of young children based on grade level.
Is Mandrake the Same as Ginseng?
Is Mandrake the Same as Ginseng?
Is Mandrake the Same as Ginseng? No, mandrake is not close to ginseng either in composition or genetics. Don’t be fooled by names like ‘ginseng ficus’ or ‘human root’, as these common names largely serve to confuse between the two plants. Mandrake, like any good...
Featured in Microgreens
Choosing the Right Microgreen Rack for Any Setup
Choosing the Right Microgreen Rack for Any Setup
Eating microgreens is a great way to add variety and nutrition to your diet. But these days, you’ll spend a pretty penny stocking up on greens at the grocery store every week. If you’re anything like us, you’ve started wondering about growing microgreens yourself....
How to Grow Microgreens: Ultimate Guide
How to Grow Microgreens: Ultimate Guide
One of the best things about microgreens is that they don't require a lot of space. You can grow them in a small container on your windowsill, balcony, or even your kitchen countertop. Since they grow quickly, you can enjoy fresh greens in just a few days for most beginner-friendly varieties.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying and Selecting Microgreens Seeds
The Ultimate Guide to Buying and Selecting Microgreens Seeds
Not only are they easy to grow, but they also pack a nutritious punch. However, before you start sprouting your first seed, you'll need to know how to select the right seeds and determine the correct amount to use for your growing setup.
Featured in Reviews
How to Use iNaturalist
How to Use iNaturalist
The naturalists of today may not spend most of their time sailing the seas and looking under crude microscopes, but there is still plenty to explore in the world. With the advancement of science comes an advancement in technology - which further aids science. While...
Garden in the Woods: Botanical Garden Spotlight
Garden in the Woods: Botanical Garden Spotlight
In this spotlight, you’ll learn about a wonderful outdoor botanical garden focused on highlighting native plants in the New England region. Garden in the Woods is a great way to learn more about sustainable gardening practices, ecosystems, and habitats of the...
24 of the Best Gifts for Gardeners Who Have Everything (Indoor and Outdoor)
24 of the Best Gifts for Gardeners Who Have Everything (Indoor and Outdoor)
In this shopping guide, HerbSpeak steps in to spread a little more holiday cheer by helping you choose the right gifts for the lucky recipient. No knowledge of gardening required!
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