Backyard Forest Blog

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  • The Hazard of Overclearing

    The Hazard of Overclearing

    A recent post in Weeds of the Northwest asked how best to clear a 400 square-foot patch of vinca. The question struck a chord with me because of…

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    4 min read

  • Early Planting Season

    Early Planting Season

    In March, as we leave freezing temperatures behind and welcome spring rains, the planting season is upon us again. It may be too early for the best selections…

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    4 min read

  • The Backyard Forest After Showers of Snow

    The Backyard Forest After Showers of Snow

    My walks in Forest Park have been inspired by intermittent showers of snow over the last few days. The dustings of white brought out shapes and details that…

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    4 min read

  • Invasive Shrubs in the Puget Lowlands

    Invasive Shrubs in the Puget Lowlands

    On the tallgrass prairies of the American Great Plains, woody shrubs are replacing grasses, and in the aging deciduous forests of the Puget Lowlands, woody shrubs are replacing…

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    4 min read

  • Augusta Oemler and the Osoberry

    Augusta Oemler and the Osoberry

    This blog began with a simple question — how did Osoberry get its scientific name, Oemleria cerasiformis? The species name made sense, Latin for “shaped like a cherry,”…

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    4 min read

  • Winter Forbs — Friends and Foes

    Winter Forbs — Friends and Foes

    Freezing weather in the Puget Lowlands does not typically last long enough to stop the growth of numerous forb species, both native and non-native. Earlier identification enables easier…

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    4 min read

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