Japanese Barberry

Japanese Barberry ~ Berberis thunbergii

Japanese Barberry or, Berberis thunbergii, is native to Japan and the eastern part of Asia. In the fall, it is beautiful. It turns a bright crimson red, Unfortunately, it’s highly invasive. I saw these on the C & O Canal trail. At first, I thought it was burning bush, which is another invasive species. However, […]

Wilderness Sign Steamboat Springs CO

Mica Basin Trail – Mt. Zirkel Wilderness

On a recent trip to Steamboat Springs Colorado, I hiked almost everyday. Getting outside and moving is so good for the soul. The Mica Basin Trail is located at the end of Seedhouse Road. The area is rather crowded, but few people hike this particular trail. Beginning of Mica Basin Trail The Mica Basin Trail […]

Tree Buds

Tree Buds

Tree Buds are the structure that trees use to protect their newly forming flowers, branches, and leaves. Having a little bit of knowledge about them is important when trimming flowering and fruit bearing trees. Read on to find out more. Types of Tree Buds Terminal buds are located at the end or apex of the […]

Mushroom Gills

Identifying Mushrooms

Fall is usually the time for fungi to emerge. Mushrooms are one type of fungi. Identifying mushrooms is not easy, and it should only be done by experts. Many mushrooms are deadly. Others can cause significant illness. Never eat a mushroom unless you are an expert at identifying fungi. Read below to find out why […]

Acorn

Acorns: Fruit or Nut?

Acorns are a sure sign of fall. Whenever I see acorns on the ground, I know that the leaves are turning soon. Read more to find out some interesting facts. Characteristics of Acorns? Acorns are the fruit of the oak tree, however they are actually a nut. Different species of oak trees produce acorns that […]

Common Milkweed Flower

Common Milkweed – Asclepias syriaca L.

The plants in the photos on this page are common milkweed. I found it when I was out on one of my many hikes / walks. I am always on the lookout for topics to write blog posts about. Common Milkweed is really anything but common. It is a quite lovely plant with spectacular flowers […]