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! We want to say a big "Thank you!" to all our financial supporters who help us provide free educational content about the plants, pollinators, and wildlife that can be found in our yards and communities.   Join our financial supporters in helping us produce free content for everyone. It doesn't take much if we all work together. If everyone who hears this contributed just $2-3 / month (or the cost of one bottle of soda / month), we would be able to produce a whole year's worth of videos, podcasts, blogs, newsletters, and other free content. Ways to contribute include: Monthly contributions.  One-time donation online. Mailing a check to Backyard Ecology, P.O. Box 652, Glasgow, KY 42142-0652