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 →
Fall is almost here—the days are shorter, the air is getting cooler, and your garden is slowing down for the season. But while it might be tempting to tidy everything up, pollinators prefer a little bit of mess. In fact, one of the best things you can do for your yard in autumn is less… Read More →
Are you done planting for the season? Think again. You’re missing a seasonal sweet spot. Fall is an excellent time of year to plant native and support pollinators. Today, we’re clearing up some common fall planting myths — because gardening season isn’t over quite yet! Myth #1: Fall is not a gardening time of year.… Read More →
Caring for Your Established Native Garden By the time your native perennial or rain garden reaches its third growing season and beyond, it’s likely a lush and colorful haven buzzing with life. Your plants have settled in, roots running deep into the soil, and blooms cycling through the seasons. But while the heavy lifting of… Read More →
Spring has sprung and pollinators are on the wing, looking for nectar and pollen after a long winter’s fast. But what if you live in an apartment or don’t have a yard? Container gardens offer a solution, acting as pocket ecosystems that support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. In this post, we’ll walk through the… Read More →
Spring is finally here in Minnesota. Dark nights are giving way to longer days and slushy snowscapes yield to grounds budded with green. And with it comes the urge to get out in the garden. But wait! Hold off on the yard cleanup just yet. Many pollinators are still overwintering in last year’s plant material.… Read More →
Want to take care of lawn areas in your outdoor space more sustainably? Spring is a great time to get started. Our team spoke with Shay Lunseth from Blue Thumb sponsor Organic Lawns by LUNSETH about “going organic” to support biodiversity, clean water, and a safer place for our kids and pets to play. Blue… Read More →
Find the perfect Blue Thumb Workshop for you this spring! Are you ready to transform your yard into a thriving habitat for pollinators, support clean water, and restore local ecology? Blue Thumb’s Planting for Clean Water workshops will give you the tools and knowledge to make it happen! Whether you’re just getting started or looking… 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 →
Happy New Year! As we gear up for 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for everyone who has engaged with Blue Thumb over the past year. Our community is the heart of our efforts to create pollinator habitats and protect clean water. In 2024, we connected and grew together in many ways, from our live workshops… Read More →
