Laurie Casey

Nature provides plenty of bizarre plotlines and unlikely heroes. Consider these: A "twice-stabbed" ladybug that eats its enemies alive. A fungus that kills its prey, then lets the shriveled carcass...

Serene and stationary in a centerpiece or outdoor container, Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) appears innocent. But when set loose in a natural area, this aggressive vine quickly forms a patch...

If you're facing the sad prospect of taking down a dying tree in your yard this year, give it another life in your home or garden. It's the ultimate regift...

In Illinois, 193 communities in 22 counties have confirmed emerald ash borer (EAB) infestations. How did we get here? It's a sorry case of not learning from our mistakes. After...

statuesque tree clad in sparkly ice provides winter spectacle for our color-starved eyes. For the tree, however, that ice suit increases the weight of branches by 30 times or more....

What do horticulture experts want to achieve in their own home gardens in 2012? Here's what staff members at The Morton Arboretum say: I will accept the fact that my...

Looking for free, quick and unique holiday decor? Use seed heads and other natural materials from your yard. It's easy and offers endless possibilities, according to Donna Smith, horticulturist at...

For many people, it wouldn't be Christmas without a fresh-cut tree they chop down themselves at a local farm. Aside from making memories, the tree will have a stronger scent...

It's a good time to remember to be thankful for trees, especially as you pour salad dressing onto a crisp salad, or dip into a scoop of ice cream with...