Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape

Showcase – Windows Lofts Apartments – Kansas City

Leave a Comment / Showcase / Blue Sparrow

In 2023, Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape was approached by Windows Lofts Apartments in downtown Kansas City to reimagine their outdated landscaping. After a few planning meetings, the project was temporarily put on hold due to budget constraints. But in early 2025, we were able to move forward and bring a fresh, modern look to […]

Showcase – Windows Lofts Apartments – Kansas City Read More »

In 2023, Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape was approached by Windows Lofts Apartments in downtown Kansas City to reimagine their outdated landscaping. After a few planning meetings, the project was temporarily put on hold due to budget constraints. But in early 2025, we were able to move forward and bring a fresh, modern look to the property’s front landscaping.

A Unique Challenge: The Pet Station

One of the most interesting aspects of this project was redesigning the apartment’s pet station. The original area sat along a curb that often flooded during heavy rain, leaving the artificial turf soggy and unusable.

Our team partnered with Grass Worx to install NATURA hybrid turf, a system that allows natural grass to grow through it while still handling heavy pet traffic. This innovative solution keeps the space looking natural, lets dogs smell the dirt beneath the surface, and eliminates the saturated turf problem. We seeded the area with a fescue blend, creating a low-maintenance, pet-friendly green space that functions just like a normal yard.

Landscape Transformation

In addition to the pet station, we:

Removed outdated rock and dying shrubs from the front beds
Trimmed and shaped existing trees
Installed new shrubs where needed
Added over 45 tons of decorative rock to refresh curb appeal

The result was a complete transformation that not only improved the visual appeal of the property but also contributed to resident satisfaction and retention.

Results & Feedback

The project took just seven days to complete, and the feedback from both management and residents has been phenomenal. The updated landscaping has given Windows Lofts a welcoming, polished curb appeal that reflects the energy of downtown Kansas City living.

What’s Taking Over Your Yard? The Problem with Invasive Bush Honeysuckle

Leave a Comment / Education / Blue Sparrow

If you’ve noticed fast-growing shrubs with bright red berries and fragrant white or yellow flowers crowding your yard or nearby woods, chances are you’ve encountered invasive bush honeysuckle. While it may look pretty at first glance, this plant is a major threat to Missouri’s landscapes — and now is the time to take action. Why

What’s Taking Over Your Yard? The Problem with Invasive Bush Honeysuckle Read More »

If you’ve noticed fast-growing shrubs with bright red berries and fragrant white or yellow flowers crowding your yard or nearby woods, chances are you’ve encountered invasive bush honeysuckle. While it may look pretty at first glance, this plant is a major threat to Missouri’s landscapes — and now is the time to take action.

Why Bush Honeysuckle is So Invasive

Bush honeysuckle species like Amur honeysuckle and Morrow honeysuckle spread aggressively, quickly outcompeting native plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Their dense thickets shade out wildflowers, young trees, and shrubs, reducing biodiversity and leaving little room for beneficial native plants to thrive.

The University of Missouri Extension warns that invasive honeysuckles can also contribute to increased tick populations. Their dense growth provides ideal habitat for small mammals like mice, which are carriers for ticks. More honeysuckle often means more ticks — and greater risk to people and pets.

The Right Time for Removal is Now

Late summer into fall is one of the best times to remove bush honeysuckle. The shrubs stay green longer than most native plants, making them easier to identify. Treating them now ensures they don’t get a head start in spring, breaking the cycle of regrowth.

At Blue Sparrow, we provide professional brush clearing and invasive species management. Simply pulling honeysuckle won’t work, and common herbicides like Roundup won’t kill it. Proper management requires selective herbicides and careful removal techniques to stop honeysuckle at the root.

Alternatives to Plant Instead

If you love honeysuckle but want to avoid the invasive varieties, MU Extension suggests planting fragrant honeysuckle or goldflame honeysuckle, which are non-invasive and beautiful options for Missouri landscapes.

Take Back Your Property

Don’t let invasive bush honeysuckle take over your yard or commercial property. Proactive management not only restores native beauty but also creates a healthier environment for people and wildlife.

Call Blue Sparrow today to schedule honeysuckle removal and protect your property’s natural balance.

What Is This Weird Grass in My Yard? Understanding & Eliminating Nutsedge

Education / Blue Sparrow

If you’ve noticed wiry, bright green shoots popping up in your lawn that seem to grow faster than everything else — you might be dealing with nutsedge. Sometimes mistaken for regular grass or weeds, nutsedge is actually a sedge, meaning it’s more closely related to lilies than turfgrass. And while it might look harmless, it

What Is This Weird Grass in My Yard? Understanding & Eliminating Nutsedge Read More »

If you’ve noticed wiry, bright green shoots popping up in your lawn that seem to grow faster than everything else — you might be dealing with nutsedge. Sometimes mistaken for regular grass or weeds, nutsedge is actually a sedge, meaning it’s more closely related to lilies than turfgrass. And while it might look harmless, it can quickly take over your yard if not handled properly.

What Makes Nutsedge Different?

Unlike normal grass, nutsedge has:

Triangular stems (roll one between your fingers — you’ll feel the edges)
Glossy, light green leaves that stand upright
Rapid growth, often towering above your lawn within days
Underground nutlets — tiny tubers that store energy and allow it to regrow even after being pulled

These underground tubers are the main reason nutsedge is so stubborn. If you pull it, you’re likely leaving most of the root system — and the plant will bounce right back, sometimes stronger than before.

Why Pulling or Using Roundup Won’t Work

Many homeowners try the usual weed-fighting tricks — pulling weeds by hand or using glyphosate (Roundup) — but nutsedge doesn’t play by those rules.

Pulling leaves the nutlets behind, which quickly sprout new growth.
Roundup is non-selective and will kill your grass, but still may not fully eradicate nutsedge, especially if it doesn’t reach the tubers.

The result? You lose healthy grass and the nutsedge keeps coming back.

The Right Way to Get Rid of Nutsedge

Nutsedge requires a selective herbicide — one designed to target sedges without harming your turfgrass. These treatments move through the plant and down into the nutlets, breaking the cycle of regrowth. The key is persistence: multiple treatments spaced appropriately through the growing season will ensure the entire plant is taken out.

Preventing Future Outbreaks

To keep nutsedge from making another unwelcome appearance:

Avoid overwatering — it thrives in moist, poorly drained soil.
Mow regularly to keep it from seeding.
Maintain a healthy, dense lawn to crowd out invaders.

Our Approach to Nutsedge Control

We use professional-grade selective herbicides that effectively eliminate nutsedge while protecting your lawn. We also schedule treatments strategically to make sure we stop both the visible plant and the underground nutlets.

Final Tip: Catch It Early

The earlier you identify nutsedge, the easier it is to control. Regular lawn checks can save you time, money, and frustration. If you suspect you’ve got nutsedge in your yard — don’t wait for it to spread.

Contact us today for an expert inspection and a treatment plan that works. Together, we’ll get your lawn back to looking its best — no weird grass allowed.

Bright Ideas: How Lighting Enhancements Can Transform Your Outdoor Space

Tips and Tricks / Blue Sparrow

Outdoor lighting isn’t just about visibility—it’s about value, safety, ambiance, and making a lasting impression. Whether you’re enhancing your home or commercial property, strategically placed lighting can elevate your space from average to unforgettable. Boost Curb Appeal and Property Value According to landscaping and real estate studies, landscape enhancements alone can increase a property’s value

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Boost Curb Appeal and Property Value

According to landscaping and real estate studies, landscape enhancements alone can increase a property’s value by 10–20%. When you incorporate outdoor lighting into that design—especially to highlight trees, pathways, and architectural details—you can increase perceived value by another 1–3%.

That means thoughtful landscaping with lighting could boost your property’s total value by 15–23%. Not a bad return for something that also makes your space look incredible every evening.

Why Lighting Matters

Lighting enhancements are one of the most impactful (and often overlooked) upgrades you can make. Here’s why:

First Impressions Sell
Buyers often decide how they feel about a property within seconds. A beautifully lit exterior creates emotional impact from the curb.
Perceived Care
Professionally designed outdoor lighting suggests that the homeowner has paid attention to the rest of the property as well—inside and out.
Extended Living Space
Lighting allows you to enjoy patios, gardens, and outdoor entertainment areas well into the evening. It also makes spaces feel larger and more welcoming.
Eco-Friendly Appeal
Today’s smart lighting solutions use LED fixtures and energy-efficient designs, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and reducing monthly energy bills.

Make Your Home Shine—And Save While You Do It

From soft pathway lighting and dramatic uplighting on trees, to ambient garden lights and architectural spotlights, our team can help you design a plan that suits your space, goals, and budget.

Summer Sale: 20% Off Lighting Enhancements & Fire Pit Installations
Through August, we’re offering 20% off all lighting enhancements and fire pit installations. It’s the perfect time to plan your upgrade and take advantage of summer evenings outdoors—while boosting your property’s value in the process.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and claim your summer discount!

Understanding Sawflies: How to Spot, Manage, and Prevent Damage

Tips and Tricks / Blue Sparrow

When it comes to garden pests, sawflies often go unnoticed—until it’s too late. These small but destructive insects can quickly defoliate trees and shrubs if not managed early. Knowing what to look for, how to differentiate them, and what to do next can help keep your landscape healthy and thriving. What Are Sawflies? Despite their

Understanding Sawflies: How to Spot, Manage, and Prevent Damage Read More »

When it comes to garden pests, sawflies often go unnoticed—until it’s too late. These small but destructive insects can quickly defoliate trees and shrubs if not managed early. Knowing what to look for, how to differentiate them, and what to do next can help keep your landscape healthy and thriving.

What Are Sawflies?

Despite their name, sawflies are not true flies. They are actually members of the wasp family (Hymenoptera) and get their name from the saw-like structure females use to lay eggs into plant tissue.

To make things a little more confusing, two very different types of insects are often lumped under the term “sawfly”—leaf-feeding sawflies and wood-boring sawflies. Both can cause damage, but their behaviors, appearance, and management techniques differ.

1. Leaf-Feeding Sawflies

These are the most common in home landscapes. The larvae resemble caterpillars but are actually wasp larvae, not butterflies or moths.

Life Cycle:

Adult sawflies emerge in spring and early summer to lay eggs on leaves.
Eggs hatch into larvae that feed voraciously on foliage for several weeks.
Once mature, the larvae drop to the soil to pupate, emerging as adults later in the season or the following spring.

Symptoms:

Skeletonized or notched leaves
Large groups of larvae feeding in clusters

Rapid defoliation, especially on pines, roses, or fruit trees

2. Wood-Boring Sawflies

These sawflies burrow into tree trunks and branches, especially in stressed or recently transplanted trees.

Life Cycle:

Adults lay eggs in bark crevices or directly into stems
Larvae bore into the wood and feed internally for months
Damage often becomes visible only after significant internal tunneling

Symptoms:

Wilting or dieback of branches
Small exit holes in bark
Frass (sawdust-like debris) around base or on bark

Diagnosing a Sawfly Problem

To confirm a sawfly issue:

Inspect leaves and stems closely, especially in spring and early summer
Look for small, soft-bodied larvae feeding in groups
Count the number of prolegs (sawfly larvae typically have 6 or more, while caterpillars have 5 or fewer)
For wood-boring types, monitor newly planted or stressed trees for wilt or boreholes

Early detection is key to effective management.

Pest Management Strategies

Here are some best practices for controlling sawflies in your garden or landscape:

Regular Monitoring
Check plants weekly during active seasons (spring and early summer) for early signs of damage or larvae.
Hand Removal
In small infestations, simply removing larvae by hand or pruning affected branches can prevent spread.
Use Insecticides Responsibly
If treatment is needed, use insecticides labeled for sawflies, not caterpillars. Products with spinosad or insecticidal soap can be effective for young larvae. Always read labels and apply only as directed.

Avoid Overuse
Don’t spray preventively. Insecticides should be used only when necessary and after confirming the presence of sawflies.

Need Help Identifying or Managing Sawflies?

If you suspect a sawfly infestation or want a second opinion before applying treatments, we’re here to help. Contact our team for a professional evaluation and responsible, effective pest management recommendations.

Let’s protect your landscape the smart way—through informed action and early intervention.

June – Rhymes with Prune: The Best Time for Summer Pruning

Tips and Tricks / Blue Sparrow

As we move into June, it’s the perfect time to get out your pruning shears and tidy up your garden. The phrase “June rhymes with prune” is a great reminder for gardeners to focus on pruning certain plants during this early summer month. Pruning at the right time ensures a healthy, productive garden and encourages

June – Rhymes with Prune: The Best Time for Summer Pruning Read More »

As we move into June, it’s the perfect time to get out your pruning shears and tidy up your garden. The phrase “June rhymes with prune” is a great reminder for gardeners to focus on pruning certain plants during this early summer month. Pruning at the right time ensures a healthy, productive garden and encourages more vibrant growth. Here’s everything you need to know about pruning your plants and shrubs in June.

When and What to Prune in June

A helpful rule of thumb when it comes to pruning is: if it flowers in the spring, prune it right after it flowers in early summer. This ensures the plant has enough time to recover and puts its energy into creating fresh new growth.

Plants such as Lilacs, Azaleas, and other spring bloomers should be pruned right after they finish blooming to encourage new buds and prevent them from becoming too leggy. Removing a portion of the stems during this time allows the plant to branch out and produce more flowers in the long run.

Additionally, upright flowering perennials can be pruned now to keep them from becoming too tall and leggy. By cutting back one-third of the plant’s height, you’ll encourage better branching and more blooms. However, keep in mind that pruning at this time can slightly delay flowering, but it will ultimately lead to a fuller, bushier plant.

As a general guideline, evergreens are safe to prune in June for shaping, or to remove dying branches and new growth.

Pruning Shrubs in Early Summer

Here are some shrubs that benefit from pruning in early summer:

Lilacs
Azaleas
Forsythia
Japanese Kerria
Weigela
Deutzia
Mockorange
St. John’s Wort
Viburnums
Ninebark
Redtwig Dogwood
Yellowtwig Dogwood

By cutting back these shrubs, you’ll not only keep them neat and attractive but also promote stronger growth for next season’s blooms.

Pruning Perennials in Early Summer

Certain perennials benefit from pruning in June as well. Pruning these plants now encourages healthy growth and a more vibrant display of flowers later in the season. Here’s a list of perennials to prune:

Joe-Pye Weed
Tall Coneflower
Bee Balm
Catmint
Coreopsis
Tall Stonecrop
Yarrow
Balloon Flower
Culver’s Root
Veronica
Russian Sage
Salvia
Asters
Garden Mums
Garden Phlox

Pruning these plants not only helps improve their shape but also promotes better flowering throughout the summer.

Pruning Edible Plants

If you have a herb or vegetable garden, early summer is also a great time to prune edibles like:

Chives
Cilantro
Basil
Thyme
Tomatoes

For herbs like basil and cilantro, regular pruning helps promote fresh growth and keeps the plants from bolting (going to seed) too early in the season. For tomatoes, pinch off any dead or excess stems to encourage better airflow and fruit production.

Pruning Tips for Success

Prune Early in the Day: It’s best to prune your plants during the cooler parts of the day to reduce stress on the plant.
Sharp Tools Are a Must: Always use sharp, clean pruning tools to avoid damaging your plants. Clean your tools between species to prevent spreading disease and pests.
Avoid Hot, Dry Days: It’s important not to prune during hot, dry spells, as this can stress the plants and hinder growth.
Don’t Prune Too Late: Avoid pruning early flowering plants after July 4th (other than deadheading), as they may not have enough time to recover before the next growing season.

Conclusion: Prune for a Healthier Garden

June is the perfect time to get your garden in shape by pruning shrubs, perennials, and edibles. Not only will this help your plants look their best, but it will also encourage new growth and a better flowering season. Keep in mind which plants benefit from early summer pruning and which should be left alone for later in the year.

If you’re unsure about the right way to prune or need assistance with your garden, don’t hesitate to contact Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape. We’re here to help you maintain a beautiful, thriving landscape year-round!

What is Happening to My Boxwood Shrubs? Understanding Boxwood Blight

Tips and Tricks / Blue Sparrow

If you’ve noticed your beloved boxwood shrubs looking less than healthy, you might be dealing with a condition known as Boxwood Blight. This destructive disease has been affecting boxwoods across the country, including right here in Kansas City and the surrounding Northland areas. But don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll explain what Boxwood Blight is,

What is Happening to My Boxwood Shrubs? Understanding Boxwood Blight Read More »

If you’ve noticed your beloved boxwood shrubs looking less than healthy, you might be dealing with a condition known as Boxwood Blight. This destructive disease has been affecting boxwoods across the country, including right here in Kansas City and the surrounding Northland areas. But don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll explain what Boxwood Blight is, how to recognize its symptoms, and what you can do to diagnose and manage the disease in your garden or landscape.

Overview: What is Boxwood Blight?

Boxwood Blight is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Cylindrocladium buxicola. This disease primarily affects boxwood shrubs, which are commonly used in landscaping due to their dense foliage, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, Boxwood Blight has become a growing concern in the Kansas City area and across the U.S. due to its rapid spread and potential to kill infected plants.

Boxwoods are highly susceptible to this disease, which can weaken the plant and cause significant damage if not properly addressed. What makes Boxwood Blight particularly concerning is that it spreads quickly from plant to plant and can be difficult to manage once established.

Symptoms of Boxwood Blight

Recognizing the symptoms of Boxwood Blight early is essential to preventing the disease from spreading throughout your garden or landscape. Common symptoms of Boxwood Blight include:

Rapid Yellowing of Leaves: The first sign of Boxwood Blight is usually the yellowing of the leaves. This happens when the disease disrupts the plant’s ability to photosynthesize, causing the leaves to lose their green color.
Brown or Black Spots on Leaves: As the disease progresses, you’ll notice dark brown or black spots forming on the leaves. These spots may appear water-soaked or have a slightly oily look, indicating the presence of the fungal spores.
Defoliation: One of the most noticeable signs of Boxwood Blight is the shedding of leaves. Affected shrubs will lose their leaves prematurely, leaving behind bare branches, which gives the plant a sparse, unhealthy appearance.
Stem Lesions: Boxwood Blight can also cause lesions on the stems of the plant. These lesions typically appear as dark, sunken areas that can eventually cause the stems to die off.

Fungal Growth: In more advanced cases, a white, fuzzy fungal growth may appear on the undersides of the leaves, particularly in the areas where the disease has spread most severely.

Diagnosis: How to Confirm Boxwood Blight

If you suspect that your boxwood shrubs are affected by Boxwood Blight, it’s essential to get a proper diagnosis to confirm the disease and rule out other potential issues, such as boxwood caterpillar damage or fungal leaf spot.

Here’s how to diagnose Boxwood Blight:

Look for Symptoms: Check for the characteristic symptoms described above, including yellowing leaves, black spots, premature defoliation, and lesions on stems.
Inspect the Plant for Fungus: If you see white fungal growth on the undersides of the leaves or on the stems, it’s a strong indication of Boxwood Blight.
Professional Diagnosis: If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional landscaper or garden center in Kansas City to help identify the problem. You can also send a sample to a local university extension office or plant diagnostic lab for an accurate diagnosis.

Preventative Measures: If you haven’t had an issue yet but want to prevent Boxwood Blight, consider using disease-resistant boxwood varieties. Regularly inspect your boxwood shrubs and practice good garden hygiene, including removing any fallen leaves and debris, which can harbor fungal spores.

Managing Boxwood Blight

While there’s no cure for Boxwood Blight, early intervention can help prevent it from spreading. Here are some tips for managing the disease:

Remove Affected Plants: If you identify a boxwood shrub that is infected with Boxwood Blight, remove the affected plant entirely, including its roots. Be sure to dispose of the plant in a way that will prevent the spores from spreading (i.e., do not compost the plant).
Sanitize Your Tools: If you’ve been working with infected plants, clean your gardening tools thoroughly with a disinfectant (e.g., bleach solution or rubbing alcohol) before using them on healthy plants. This helps prevent the disease from spreading to unaffected areas.
Pruning and Spacing: Prune any dead or infected branches from healthy plants to improve airflow and reduce the humidity that promotes fungal growth. Ensure that boxwoods are spaced properly to encourage airflow, which will help keep the foliage dry.
Fungicide Treatments: There are fungicides available that can help prevent the spread of Boxwood Blight. Be sure to consult with a local landscaping professional in Kansas City or your garden center to select the best product and apply it correctly.

Replace Infected Plants with Disease-Resistant Varieties: If the damage is severe, consider replacing your boxwood shrubs with varieties that are more resistant to Boxwood Blight, such as ‘Green Velvet’ or ‘Wintergreen’.

Conclusion: Protect Your Boxwood Shrubs from Boxwood Blight

Boxwood Blight is a serious issue for gardeners in Kansas City and surrounding areas, but with the right knowledge and care, you can protect your boxwoods and keep your landscape looking beautiful. Regularly inspect your plants, remove infected ones promptly, and take steps to improve their health with proper care and treatment.

If you need help with diagnosis, treatment, or preventive care for your boxwood shrubs, Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape is here to assist. Contact us for professional advice, pruning services, and expert landscaping care to ensure your property remains healthy and vibrant all year long.

Carpenter Bees: Prevention and Management for a Healthy Property

Uncategorized / Blue Sparrow

If you’ve noticed large, solitary bees buzzing around your wooden structures, it’s likely you’ve encountered carpenter bees. While they may seem harmless, these bees can cause significant damage to wooden structures, including fences, decks, and even your home. In this blog, we’ll explain what carpenter bees are, how to identify them, why they pose a

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If you’ve noticed large, solitary bees buzzing around your wooden structures, it’s likely you’ve encountered carpenter bees. While they may seem harmless, these bees can cause significant damage to wooden structures, including fences, decks, and even your home. In this blog, we’ll explain what carpenter bees are, how to identify them, why they pose a threat, and most importantly, how to prevent and manage them.

What Are Carpenter Bees?

Carpenter bees (genus Xylocopa) are large, solitary bees that are often mistaken for bumblebees due to their similar size and appearance. Unlike bumblebees, however, carpenter bees have a smooth, shiny abdomen instead of the furry body that bumblebees are known for. Carpenter bees are primarily known for drilling into wood to build their nests. These bees typically nest in untreated, unpainted wood, which makes your fences, decks, eaves, and even wooden siding perfect targets for infestation.

Signs of Carpenter Bee Activity

Carpenter bees are often identified by the following signs:

Holes in Wood: The most obvious sign is the small, round holes (approximately 1/2 inch in diameter) they bore into wooden structures. These holes are typically found on horizontal surfaces such as decks, beams, and eaves.
Sawdust Piles: After boring into the wood, carpenter bees create small piles of sawdust (frass) beneath the entrance holes as they excavate tunnels.
Buzzing: Carpenter bees can often be heard buzzing loudly as they hover around wooden surfaces, especially during the spring and summer months when they are active.

Visible Bee Activity: If you notice bees hovering around the same areas over several days, especially around wood surfaces, this could indicate a nesting site.

Why Are Carpenter Bees a Problem?

While carpenter bees do not sting unless provoked, they can cause significant damage to wooden structures. The bees burrow into wood to create nesting tunnels, and over time, this can weaken the structural integrity of buildings, decks, fences, and other outdoor wooden features. Left untreated, carpenter bee infestations can lead to costly repairs.

In addition, as the bees burrow deeper into the wood, they can attract other pests such as ants or termites, further complicating the issue.

Prevention and Management of Carpenter Bees

1. Seal Gaps and Cracks

The best way to prevent carpenter bees from nesting in your wood is to seal all cracks, holes, and gaps in your wooden structures. If you notice any small openings, fill them immediately with caulk or wood filler. The bees are particularly attracted to untreated or damaged wood, so ensure your outdoor structures are well-maintained.

2. Paint or Varnish Wood Surfaces

Carpenter bees are less likely to nest in painted or varnished wood. Coating wood surfaces with a protective finish helps deter them from boring into your property. Regularly paint or stain any exposed wood surfaces, particularly those that are not already naturally weathered.

3. Use Carpenter Bee Traps

Specially designed carpenter bee traps can help capture and remove these bees. These traps typically have an entrance hole that lures the bees inside, where they are trapped. Once captured, the bees can be safely removed and relocated.

4. Apply Insecticidal Dust or Spray

For immediate control, insecticidal dust or sprays can be applied to carpenter bee nests. These products are effective at killing the bees inside the tunnels. Be sure to follow all manufacturer instructions, and only apply treatments during the evening or early morning hours when the bees are less active.

5. Install Bee Deterrents

Certain essential oils, such as citronella, mint, and eucalyptus, have been shown to repel carpenter bees. You can create a homemade deterrent spray by mixing a few drops of essential oils with water and spraying it on wood surfaces where bees are active. Additionally, hanging up reflective objects like aluminum foil strips or wind chimes can sometimes discourage bees from nesting nearby.

6. Professional Pest Control

If you have a severe carpenter bee infestation, it may be best to contact a professional pest control service to safely and effectively remove the bees. An expert can identify nests, apply treatment, and prevent further damage to your property.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve noticed a growing number of carpenter bees and your preventive measures haven’t been effective, it may be time to seek professional help. A pest control expert can assess the extent of the infestation, remove bees and nests safely, and offer long-term solutions to keep your property bee-free.

Protect Your Property from Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees, while beneficial to the ecosystem as pollinators, can cause significant damage to your wooden structures. By taking preventive measures such as sealing wood gaps, painting surfaces, and using traps, you can reduce the risk of infestations. Regularly maintaining your property and being vigilant for signs of carpenter bees can help keep your outdoor spaces beautiful and safe.

At Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape, we’re committed to keeping your landscape healthy and pest-free. If you need assistance with carpenter bee management or any other pest-related concerns, feel free to reach out to our team for professional advice and services.

Missouri Natives and the Declining Bee Population: How You Can Help

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The decline of the bee population is a growing concern for environmentalists, gardeners, and farmers alike. Bees play an essential role in pollinating plants, making them crucial for food production, biodiversity, and the overall health of ecosystems. In Missouri, as in other parts of the country, the dwindling numbers of bees pose a threat to not only agriculture but also the local flora. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to help support the bee population, and one of the most effective ways is by planting native plants.

In this blog, we will explore the importance of bees, how the decline is impacting Missouri, and how planting native plants can help support these vital pollinators.

Why Bees Matter

Bees are essential pollinators, responsible for pollinating about 75% of flowering plants and around one-third of the food crops we consume. Without bees, many of the foods we rely on, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, would become much scarcer and more expensive. Additionally, bees help maintain biodiversity by supporting the reproduction of a wide variety of plants, which in turn supports wildlife and strengthens ecosystems.

The Decline of Bee Populations

In recent years, bee populations in the United States have seen a sharp decline, and Missouri is no exception. The loss of habitat, the overuse of pesticides, and the spread of diseases and parasites are all contributing factors to the decrease in bee numbers. As natural habitats like wildflower fields and forests are destroyed for development and farming, bees lose the sources of food and shelter they need to survive.

Missouri’s Native Plants and Bees

One of the best ways to help combat the decline of the bee population is by planting native plants. Native plants are species that have evolved in a particular region and are well-suited to the local climate, soil, and wildlife. In Missouri, many of these plants are perfect for attracting and supporting bees, as they provide vital nectar and pollen sources.

Benefits of Planting Native Plants for Bees

Provide Food Sources: Native plants produce nectar and pollen that are rich in nutrients for bees, providing a reliable food source throughout the seasons.
Support Local Ecosystems: Native plants are well adapted to Missouri’s climate and can thrive with minimal care, making them ideal for low-maintenance landscaping that helps conserve water and supports local wildlife.
Enhance Biodiversity: By planting native plants, you help preserve the genetic diversity of local ecosystems, supporting bees and other pollinators in the process.

Top Missouri Native Plants for Bees

Here are some of the best native plants in Missouri that are known to attract and support bees:

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – A classic Missouri native, the Purple Coneflower attracts bees with its large, showy flowers. It’s a hardy plant that blooms throughout the summer and into the fall.
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Known for its vibrant yellow petals and dark centers, Black-Eyed Susans are a bee favorite and a perfect addition to any garden.
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) – As the name suggests, this plant is a favorite of bees. It has aromatic leaves and vibrant, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, and purple.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) – Goldenrod is an excellent late-season nectar source for bees, blooming in late summer and fall when other plants begin to fade.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – With its striking purple flowers, Wild Bergamot is highly attractive to bees and also offers medicinal properties.

Creating a Bee-Friendly Landscape

To create a bee-friendly garden, it’s important to choose plants that provide a continuous food source throughout the growing season. Consider planting a variety of flowers that bloom in different months, so bees always have something to feed on.

Here are a few tips for creating a pollinator-friendly landscape:

Diverse Plantings: Include a mix of flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year to ensure a steady supply of nectar and pollen.
Avoid Pesticides: Pesticides can harm pollinators. Use natural pest control methods, such as companion planting or introducing beneficial insects, to protect your garden.
Plant in Clusters: Bees are more likely to visit plants when they are grouped together in clusters. Group your plants by species to increase their attractiveness to pollinators.
Provide Shelter: Leave patches of bare ground for ground-nesting bees, and allow some overgrown areas to provide nesting sites for other species.

What You Can Do to Help

As a homeowner, gardener, or property manager, you have the power to make a significant impact on local bee populations. By planting native plants and adopting bee-friendly practices, you can help reverse the decline of these essential pollinators. Consider incorporating more native flowers, shrubs, and trees into your garden, and spread the word about the importance of supporting bees in your community.

If you’re interested in creating a bee-friendly landscape or learning more about Missouri’s native plants, Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape is here to help! We can guide you in selecting the best plants for your property and design a landscape that benefits both you and the local pollinators.

Let’s work together to protect our bees and the environment for future generations!

Spring Pruning: Essential Tips for a Thriving Garden

Tips and Tricks / Blue Sparrow

As we transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of spring, it’s the perfect time to give your garden the attention it deserves. Spring pruning is an essential task that helps your plants thrive by promoting healthy growth, enhancing blooms, and keeping your outdoor space looking neat and tidy. However, it’s crucial to

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As we transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of spring, it’s the perfect time to give your garden the attention it deserves. Spring pruning is an essential task that helps your plants thrive by promoting healthy growth, enhancing blooms, and keeping your outdoor space looking neat and tidy. However, it’s crucial to know what to prune, when to prune, and most importantly, what not to prune!

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essentials of spring pruning—what to cut, when to do it, and how to avoid mistakes that could harm your plants.

Why Prune in Spring?

Pruning in spring helps stimulate healthy growth and removes any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, which can prevent future problems. It’s also the best time to trim back plants that have grown too large or become unruly over the winter months. Proper pruning in spring encourages a stronger, more vibrant garden, leading to healthier plants and better blooms.

What to Prune in Spring

1. Old Wood:

Spring is an ideal time to prune plants that have old wood—the parts of the plant that grew in the previous season. Over the winter, old wood can become weak, dry, or brittle. Pruning back old wood encourages new growth and rejuvenates your plants.

Examples:
- Clematis: Cut back dead vines to allow fresh shoots to emerge.
- Roses: Prune back the old, woody stems and dead or dying branches to encourage stronger stems for new blooms.

2. Ornamental Grasses:

Ornamental grasses may start looking messy after the winter. Pruning them back will allow them to grow fresh, vibrant blades when the weather warms up. However, make sure to prune before the new shoots emerge.

When to prune: As soon as the new growth starts to appear at the base of the grass clumps.
How to prune: Cut back the old foliage to about 2-4 inches from the ground to make room for the new growth.

3. Hydrangeas:

Many types of hydrangeas, especially those that bloom on new wood, benefit from a good spring pruning. By trimming back old, dead stems, you’ll help stimulate new, healthy growth that will result in stunning flowers.

When to prune: Late winter to early spring, just before the new growth begins.

What to prune: Cut back dead stems and any old wood. If you have hydrangeas that bloom on old wood (like mophead hydrangeas), prune them lightly, removing only dead or damaged wood to preserve this year’s blooms.

What NOT to Prune in Spring

While pruning can be incredibly beneficial for many plants, there are some you should avoid pruning during springtime. Some plants require their blossoms or flowers to grow on old wood, and cutting these back too soon can prevent you from enjoying their vibrant blooms.

1. Flowering Shrubs and Trees:

Avoid pruning shrubs and trees that bloom early in the season, such as:

Forsythia: Prune after it blooms to avoid cutting off the buds for the next year.
Lilacs: These bloom on old wood, so if you prune them in the spring, you’ll lose next year’s flowers.
Magnolias & Azaleas: Prune them after they’ve finished flowering, as cutting them back before they bloom can diminish their spring show.

Pruning these plants after their blossoms fade ensures that you don’t remove buds, which are already forming for next year’s flowers.

2. Spring Blooming Trees & Shrubs:

Trees like dogwood, cherry, and apple trees bloom on older wood, so avoid pruning them before they flower. Doing so could result in fewer blooms or none at all for the season. Wait until after flowering to prune for the best results.

Tips for Effective Spring Pruning

Use Clean, Sharp Tools: Always use sharp pruning shears, loppers, or saws to make clean cuts. Dull tools can damage plants and make the pruning process harder.
Remove Dead or Diseased Growth First: Before shaping or thinning, make sure to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to promote healthy growth.
Don’t Over-prune: It’s easy to get carried away, but too much pruning can stress plants. Stick to pruning only what’s necessary, especially for young plants or trees.
Cut at the Right Angle: Always make cuts at a 45-degree angle, just above a bud. This helps water to flow off the cuts and promotes proper healing.

Spring pruning is an important part of garden care, but knowing when and how to prune is key to keeping your plants healthy and thriving. Pruning at the right time—whether it’s cutting back old wood, trimming ornamental grasses, or removing dead hydrangea stems—helps encourage growth, improves blooms, and keeps your garden in top shape.

Remember, not all plants should be pruned in spring, especially those that flower on old wood. If you’re unsure when to prune your plants, feel free to reach out to Blue Sparrow Lawn & Landscape for expert advice or assistance.

Let us help you get your garden ready for a beautiful spring season!