Goldenrod Geek-out! What You Need to Know About This Ecological Powerhouse!

Summary

In this episode, Sam Hoadley and I talk about how goldenrods (Solidago sp.) are keystone species and all the ecological roles that they play. We also touch on some of the evolving discussions and potential unintended consequences related to the native plant movement.

3 things you'll learn from this episode

• The various ways that goldenrods are used year-round by a wide variety of wildlife and insects.
• Different ways in which you can incorporate goldenrods into your gardens and home landscape.
• Some of the deeper level discussions and concerns that are starting to arise as gardening with native plants begins to become more mainstream and common in the horticulture world.

Today's guest

Sam Hoadley is the Manager of Horticultural Research at Mt. Cuba Center where he evaluates native plant species, old and new cultivars, and hybrids in the Trial Garden.

Resources:

• Mt. Cuba Center
• Solidago Trial Report
• Goldenrod Galls - What, How, and Why
• The Backyard Ecologist's Newsletter
• Backyard Ecology™ Community

Thank you!

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