Phenology

Monarchs aren't the only milkweed dwellers preparing for flight

by Karen Schik

August 13, 2015

While the best-known migratory insect may be monarch butterflies, another denizen of milkweed plants is also facing a long migration as fall approaches.

Milkweed bug nymphs with black wing buds, found on whorled milkweed in late August in Dakota County. Once mature, this generation will fly south as food supplies dwindle.

Is it goldenrod or ragweed?

by Alex Roth

July 20, 2015

Many people suffer from allergies during mid to late summer, but few know exactly what causes them. Folks usually chalk these allergies up to hay fever, and rightly so, but are all plants to blame? Goldenrod, a prolific flowering plant with masses of golden flowers, is often mistakenly blamed for causing the itchy eyes, runny nose and other symptoms that many of us suffer from. However, for most of us, ragweed is the true culprit.