My backyard is still under over a foot of snow with more expected this week. My bird feeder has been a busy gathering place for my feathered friends. And the squirrels are just as happy to dine on whatever mess they find on the ground from those messy birds. But yesterday, I saw them munching on a different treat - rose hips. During the summer, my carpet roses are a beautiful shade of pink and emit a sweet scent. Rose hips are swollen seed pods that form under the blossom, turning orange and red, and last for months after the blossom is long gone. Here's how mine looked in October . Rose hips are a tasty treat for squirrels, birds and rabbits. Humans can eat them too, but only the fleshy outer part. The hairy inner seeds can irritate human intestines. Personally, I've never eaten one, but I've read that they taste like a tart apple crossed with a rose petal. Rose hips are rich in vitamin C and can be made into jams, jellies, syrups and tea. Looking a...
Everywhere you turn, the message seems to be the same: "Plant natives, avoid non-natives!" But does it really have to be all or nothing? Can’t we create gardens that support the environment and bring us joy? There’s no question that native plants play a crucial ecological role. They support local wildlife, promote biodiversity, and help restore balance to our ecosystems. But that doesn’t mean you need to rip out every non-native plant in your yard. I believe your garden should reflect what you love—whether those plants are native or not. Non-native plants expand your palette and give you more tools to bring your vision to life. If you’re dreaming of a specific flower shape, a bold color, or a certain texture or size, you may find what you're looking for outside the list of regional natives. Limiting yourself exclusively to native plants can sometimes mean missing out on plants that delight you or thrive in your unique space. And let’s not forget—gardening is not only abo...