HOME & GARDEN
The Humble Hackberry
Common hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is one of our region’s most common forest trees, yet it often goes unrecognized.
Dramatic and Delicious
Elderberry offers beauty in the landscape and flavor at the table July 2026 by Steve Carroll, Contributing Columnist If you are interested in a shrub that has attractive flowers, conspicuous fruit and the prospects for enjoyment at the dinner table, consider the...
Spectacular Beauty, Hazy Future
Fringe tree plays a number of important roles in the functioning of natural ecosystems.
The Nut You Didn’t Notice
The American hazelnut is one of the season’s earliest, and most easily overlooked, blooms.
The Pawpaw
Why am I writing about one of my favorite trees only now, nearly five years into my Branching Out series?
American Beech
Beech is a critical part of our eastern forests.
Magnolias
Spectacular trees all year long April 2025 by Steve Carroll, Contributing Columnist Magnolias are justly admired for their striking, fragrant spring flowers. While red maple, serviceberry and other trees bloom earlier, a magnolia on your property likely takes center...
How Farmhouses Went Modern
Design trends for rural homes April 2025 by Jim Winnerman, Contributing Writer You might be familiar with interior decorating styles known as mid-century modern, contemporary or, simply, modern. Less familiar to you may be a design approach known as modern farmhouse....
Greener Pastures
Cattle do a lot more for the country and environment than just being the backdrop for popular Western dramas.