By guest author Nina Gropp Pollinators and plants have been shaping each other’s evolution for millions of years, forming relationships that are both fascinating to observe and essential to functioning ecosystems. Scientists believe that beetles were the first pollinators, unintentionally moving pollen while feeding on flowers about 130 million years ago. Flowering plants responded by… Read More →
At Blue Thumb, we love sharing tools that make native planting more approachable and successful. That’s why we’re excited to highlight our partner and sponsor Prairie Restorations and their new online tool: PRESTO. PRESTO helps take the guesswork out of choosing native plants. By combining site conditions with historical ecological data, the tool generates a… Read More →
Ready to support pollinators in your own yard—but not sure where to start, or what to do next? This season, Blue Thumb is launching Lawns to Legumes: Habitat at Home, a free, guided program that helps Minnesotans create, expand, or care for pollinator-friendly spaces—step by step, and alongside a community of others doing the same.… Read More →
Caring for water, soil, and pollinators starts right at home. For many, that includes rethinking how we manage our lawns. Organic lawn care is one approach that’s growing in popularity—especially for those looking for sustainable options that reduce chemical inputs and complement nearby native plantings. We connected with Shay Lunseth of Organic Lawns by LUNSETH,… Read More →
When you visit a native plant nursery, you’re not just picking out plants. You’re stepping into someone’s life work—a story shaped by soil, seasons, pollinators, and community. In Minnesota, we are lucky to have many quality native plant nurseries across the state. These businesses and retailers, small and large, are growing more than flowers. They’re… Read More →
The growing season is approaching! We’re once again sharing a list of upcoming native plant sales in the Twin Cities Metro and throughout Minnesota. Sales will be continually added as announced. Why native plants? Native plants fortify ecosystems by supporting local pollinators and improving water quality. Well-adapted to Minnesota’s climatic conditions, native plants have robust… Read More →
Thinking about planting native plants this year—but not sure where to start? Or maybe you already have a rain garden or pollinator planting and want to make sure it thrives long-term. Blue Thumb’s spring Planting for Clean Water workshops are designed to meet you where you are, with practical guidance, expert support, and plenty of… Read More →
As the days grow shorter and the first snows begin to settle, our gardens slow down, entering a quiet dormancy. Yet even in winter, nature is busy giving. Seeds, stalks, roots, and leaf litter continue the cycle of life, providing nourishment, shelter, and renewal. In this season of giving, we can take inspiration from nature… Read More →
Late fall is a great time to start planning for your native planting, rain garden, or other sustainable landscaping project. If you live in Minnesota, there are many funding opportunities to support your work! Minnesota residents can apply for a Lawns to Legumes grant, a $400 reimbursement for creating pollinator habitat with native plants. Apply… Read More →
Two summers ago, Amy Lesher of Shoreview stood in her backyard imagining a transformation. What was once a patch of grass would soon become a tapestry of native flowers, alive with bees and butterflies. “I have absolutely loved every step,” Amy says. “Shopping for the plants was like a botanical treasure hunt. Now, in year… Read More →
