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Plants & Animals

Plants & Animals

Editor: Barbara Bell

This is the place to learn the facts about all living things, whether plant or animal, in all their fascinating diversity! Learn about our natural world of plants & animals in such topics as birds, cats, dogs, horses, other mammals, reptiles and amphibians, saltwater fish and freshwater fish, and even insects - and you can find out about animals in more depth by reading about pet care. We pay attention to the value of wildlife conservation, as well. The latest information about the world of plants and animals is based on up-to-date research.

The writers at Botany will give you the facts of the science; the writers of plants and bulbs, landscaping, organic gardening, houseplants, flower gardens, desert/water-wise gardening, vegetable and water gardens will put it into practical perspective for you.

 

Latest articles in Plants & Animals

African Violets
African violets make lovely living bouquets that can brighten your home on gray wintery days that last long after cut flowers have faded.
Medicinal Plant Profile of the Common Foxglove
Common foxglove has a long history of medicinal use in Europe and is a popular cottage garden flower; however, foxglove is also poisonous and should be used with care.
Medical and Cultural Importance of Amphibians
Humans have interacted with amphibians since antiquity. Some of these exchanges are direct and easily understood while others are more difficult to discern.
Imperial Woodpecker, the Most Endangered Bird
Imperial woodpeckers, perhaps the most endangered birds in the world (if not extinct), have historically occupied the montane hardwood forests of West Mexico.
Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count Open to All
The annual Christmas Bird Count brings new and experienced birders together to count local birds, providing key information on environmental issues and climate change.
A Christmas Gift for the Family Horse or Pony
Having flicked through the 'horsey' catalogues its often hard to choose the perfect gift. Here is an easy to follow guide to make a cheap, edible present for a pony.
Dangerous Xmas Food for Cats and Dogs
Veterinarians are warning pet owners they could seriously injure or kill their animals if they feed them too many Christmas leftovers.
Garden Magazines as Gifts
Gardening magazines run from "how-to" periodicals to landscape architectural journals, meeting a variety of reading interests for most gardeners.
Garden Gift Ideas
Gardeners love tools, magazines, plants, books, gloves and just about anything else that make their gardening experience easier, relaxing and more fun.
Christmas Gifts For Pets
Pets are members of the family, and many families like to put something under the Christmas tree for Max, Fluffy or Pete.
Gazing Globes for Garden Reflection, Accent
Gazing balls are enjoying a renaissance of use as landscape decorations. These strategically placed orbs bring drama to flower gardens, sitting areas, yards and walkways.
Making Use of Kudzu
Kudzu has taken over gardens, yards and fields in the Southeastern U.S. for 133 years, but it's more than just a nuisance - it can even be used to make fuel.
Evergreen Tree at Christmas – How to Care for It
The use of evergreens as Christmas trees has long been part of the culture of the celebration of Christmas. Buying one signals the start of the festive holiday season.
Ivory-Billed Woodpecker, a Threatened Species
Commonly thought to be extinct since the middle of the last century, these birds, the rarest and most endangered birds in America, were perhaps rediscovered in 2004.
Cat and Dog Adoption and Euthanasia Statistics
Every year in the United States, enormous numbers of cats and dogs are euthanized due to overpopulation.
South Carolina Hardy Flowering Plants
Not all flowers will thrive in the zones of 7a to 8b, those zones of South Carolina. These will. Choices for the garden include annuals and perennials.
Common Birds in Southeast Pine Forests
Southeastern pine forests are home to many common birds of America. Following are descriptions of some of the most abundant ones, and bird identification techniques.
Costa Del Sol Gardening for Beginners
Gardening in the Costal Del Sol's Mediterranean climate is fun and ten useful planting tips for beginners will ensure colour during late autumn and early winter
Pruning Clematis
While some points apply to pruning all clematis, different types of clematis have discrete requirements. Having identified the type of clematis, pruning should be easy.
Finding a Quality Horse Boarding Barn
People value and love their horses, so when it's necessary to board them, owners try to find a quality barn. Here are some tips to tell a good barn from a bad one.
Considerations When Looking to Castrate a Horse
Also known as cutting, emasculating, or castrating, the gelding of a colt is a commonplace thing in the horse industry. There are a couple of ways to go about this.
What Should You Feed Your Parrot
The type of food that you feed your pet bird today will affect its health later in life. Make sure your parrot is getting the right mix of seed, pellet and fresh foods.
Best New Books for Gardeners and Landscapers
Up-to-date horticulture books make practical and last minute gifts for gardeners and landscape gardeners. Buying is as close as an internet connection and credit card.
Home for Orchids at Medillin's Botanic Garden
The Botanic Garden in Colombia's second-largest city combines trees and plants from different environments with stunning architecture and open space in the city center.
Edible Flowering Plants to Brew Tea
With a move back to victory gardens, edible landscapings and organic or homegrown food and drink, one easy project is a tea garden
Is My Cat in Heat? – Cat Symptoms of Heat Cycle
Wondering how to tell if a cat is in heat? Learn the symptoms of a cat in heat. Cats in heat will exhibit distinct oestrus-related behaviors like calling and licking.
Gifts for Gardeners
If you have a gardener on your list, try selecting some of the gardening items below. You're sure to impress, and your gardener will enjoy the items for months to come.
Bright Colors of Coleus for the Shady Garden
Easy to grow coleus with its bright colored foliage is making a comeback in the shady garden, and as an indoor plant for home and office.
How to Care for Your Dog's Teeth
Although dog owners usually visit their veterinarian for regular physical checkups, too often they neglect dental needs. Besides home care, a dog needs dental cleanings.
Why Successful Gardening Relies on Good Timing
Successful gardening relies upon our ability to observe nature and understand the processes which happen at different seasons and at various stages of plant development.
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