Japanese Knotweed is one of the invasive species gaining more and more ground in Ontario. It seems to be also present in almost all US states and Canadian provinces. It is somewhat similar to bamboo stalk, but not related. Prefers wet areas and propagates usually along side roads and ditches. Once established, it is quite… Continue reading May 2nd, 2019 Japanese Knotweed
There are many invasive species in Ontario, both plants and animals. They are listed on the government of Ontario site and even regulated by Invasive Species Act. Many neighboring US states list this invaders as “one of the ten most destructive invasive species”. It competes with native plants and very aggressively spreads in relatively short… Continue reading April 24th, 2019 Garlic Mustard
Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) is very common, sturdy plant that can grow in wide variety of soils. The staghorn sumac is native to the southern half of Ontario and eastwards to the Maritime provinces. It likes a lot of sunshine and prefers roadsides, forest edges and clearings. Frequently it invades backyards and lawns and can… Continue reading Sumac Lemonade
The main thing I noticed on my recent hikes on the Niagara escarpment were Elderberries. A great number of bushes with huge amount of berries (in both green and red stage) abound. Personally, I have never tried to do anything with this berry, but this year, I will try to make elderberry syrup. It… Continue reading June 29th, 2017
It is the middle of April and all mushroom enthusiasts are thinking about morels. However, in South-Western Ontario, overnight temperatures still dip down to around 0° C and even into the minuses, telling me that morel season is still a couple of weeks away. The other plants, edible and not, are progressing well. Chicory is… Continue reading Definitely Spring April 18th, 2017
