The Botanical Sage

01/13/2026

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01/13/2026

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTZX9B0jZMt/?igsh=MTlxMGphaHF0ZnE0cg==

01/12/2026

Many species evolved alongside oak trees, relying on their leaves, bark, and hollows. Some insects can survive on oak alone.

That single tree becomes the backbone of an entire food web.

01/11/2026

A Mississauga man has won a Superior Court challenge against the city over a w**d control bylaw that prevents homeowners from growing some plants and grass over a certain height.

01/11/2026

Lichens & Moss: tiny growths with surprisingly big jobs

If you’ve ever noticed soft green mats, fuzzy patches, or leafy “ruffles” on wood and stone, you’re looking at organisms that are built for survival.

First, a quick reality check

Moss is a simple plant that loves moisture and shade.

Lichen isn’t a plant at all—it’s a partnership between a fungus and algae (or cyanobacteria), and it grows very slowly.

Some common names are misleading: “reindeer moss” and “oakmoss” are lichens, and “Spanish moss” isn’t a moss (it’s an air plant).

Why they matter (even in a home garden)

They hold moisture, reduce erosion, and create micro-habitats for beneficial insects.

They’re often signs of stable, low-disturbance areas (especially lichens).

Lichens on bark are usually not harmful to trees—they don’t suck sap like parasites.

Practical uses people talk about (with safe, honest cautions)

1) Insulation & padding
Dried moss/lichen has been used historically as stuffing and insulation in shelters or between layers—useful only when it’s kept dry.

2) Emergency wound padding (sphagnum)
Sphagnum is very absorbent and was used historically for dressing wounds. In real life, sterile gauze is always better. If it’s an emergency, use only clean material, and still treat it as temporary first aid.

3) Tinder
Fully dried moss or Spanish moss can help start a fire—but shake it out well and be aware it can carry bugs/mites.

4) Water
Moss can help pre-filter dirt and sediment, but it does not make water safe to drink. Never rely on “squeezing water out” as safe hydration—boil or disinfect first.

5) Food
This is the riskiest claim online: some lichens can be eaten only with expert identification and careful processing, while others can irritate or be toxic. Consider lichens emergency-only and not beginner-friendly.

Garden tip you can use today

Moss taking over a lawn usually points to shade, compacted soil, and constant moisture—improve drainage, aerate, and increase sunlight.

Sphagnum in pots is great for seed-starting and moisture control, but too much can keep roots wet if drainage is poor.

What do you see more around your place—moss in shady corners or lichen on tree trunks?

01/08/2026

Native bee balm (Monarda) can support over 94 species of native bees, providing abundant nectar through its tubular red flowers from mid-summer through early fall. Its extended bloom period fills a critical gap when many other flowers have finished. Turf grass lawns provide zero food value for pollinators.

01/05/2026

01/05/2026

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTDs3XmjS73/?igsh=Ymt3a2syOGFvbnpy

01/04/2026

01/04/2026

The urge to "tidy up" the garden for winter often removes the very organisms that help the garden thrive during the growing season.

Leaving some debris helps:
- Protect habitats for native bees and insects 🐝
- Insulate soil to keep roots safe
- Cycle nutrients for healthy plants 🌿
- Control erosion from winter storms