Eco(Fun)ctional Blog

February is a key time to control invasive plants like buckthorn, barberry, and lesser celandine in Chicago area gardens. Click to find tips on identification, removal, and replacement native plants.

Discover how three unique projects transformed into thriving native gardens, demonstrating the positive impact of thoughtful planning, dedicated stewardship, and a collaborative approach.

This summer, 17 year cicadas, Brood XIII, are emerging in the Chicago area. While their calls might be noisy, they are harmless to gardens and even help aerate soil. Learn how to protect young tress and appreciate nature's magic. 

Lesser celandine is a serious invasive plant threatening yards across the region. While there is no easy solution, landowners can make a difference with a variety of methods , including planting resilient native species. 

In 2024 we will continue to root for nature and grow our recognition of how our human spirit is such a powerfully interrelated part of that nature. That we always have an option to move toward connection and better understanding.

As Fall approaches, How can we make sure our gardens are still providing food and shelter to our ecosystem?

It's January and although the weather is cold, this is a great time to re-imagine your garden space and prepare for spring.

It's a blessing that good can come out of such a challenging time - and being a part of assisting the blossoming of more resilient eco-systems in our client's yards.

What if we used this time at home to look around it and expand the common good to include the miraculous diversity of nature starting with plant and animal life in our own backyards?  It sounds simple but there are some old habits and beliefs in the

Ecosystem services are available for us to tap into for greater personal and environmental health in the yards around our homes. Sustainable SITES Initiative® has set guidelines we can all benefit from.   Read on...