Three glass jars hold clusters of white blossoms and a single yellow daffodil, all set on a windowsill with a blurry outdoor scene and tree branches visible through the window.

Sloughing off the final olive-drab layers, downy-white flowers unfurled upon the Bradford Pear as the Redbud’s ethereal blooms cast a cheery glow unto the scene. Swelling buds and spring ephemerals dotted the landscape as the grass grew green and lush.  Nature was fully engaged.

A large, fluffy black and brown dog lies on green grass, looking to the left. A persons legs and feet are visible in the background, standing on the lawn.

It’s no coincidence that we celebrate Earth Day this Thursday, April 22nd. It’s a day to celebrate earth and demonstrate our support for her well-being. In some ways, it’s become synonymous with the whole green movement, more specifically the global climate change initiative. No matter where you stand on the whole global warming/climate change debate, Earth Day is a great day to honor nature and appreciate all her diversity and splendor, and we’ve put together a few, reasonable and meaningful ideas to help you celebrate all year long (masks optional):

A red garden trowel stands in soil among potted purple petunias, with plant tags visible. Lush greenery and more flowers are in the blurred background.

Start a Garden
It doesn’t have to be anything grand or complicated. Consider planting in containers or raised beds. It need not take up much space or require tons of time or money. Basically, plant something – anything. Perhaps you have a favorite flower, vegetable, or herb. Give it a go.  Look to natives, and pollinator friendly plants.  Share/swap plants with friends and neighbors.  It’s eco-friendly and cost effective.

A close-up of various flowers, including a yellow chrysanthemum and bird of paradise, lying on the ground with soil, leaves, and small branches scattered around.

Compost
Start turning garden and select kitchen waste into gardening gold! Start a compost bin or pile.  Some municipalities even offer community composting.

Photo of a tall tree viewed from the base, looking up the rough, textured trunk toward spreading branches and dense green leaves against a bright sky.

Plant a Tree
Trite? Perhaps. Incredibly valuable and symbolic? Yes! Look to native trees and/or shrubs. They provide food and shelter for local wildlife, and so much more.

A raised wooden planter box filled with purple flowers and dark purple leafy plants, set on a paved surface beside a white building.

Upcycle and Recycle
Get crafty by upcycling items. Got a bunch of glass bottles? Consider making a bottle tree. Upcycle old containers, vessels, etc. and use as unique planters. Recycle clothes, books, etc. by donating. Keeping things out of the trash is a win-win.

Pink, white, and purple wildflowers bloom among tall green grass in a field, with a softly blurred background suggesting a natural outdoor setting.

Plant Native
Consider adding Native plants to your yard/garden. Native plants generally require little to no maintenance, so no supplemental watering or chemicals are needed, and local wildlife are drawn to them.

Two deer stand near bushes under blooming trees with pink flowers beside a paved parking lot. The scene appears to be during dusk, with soft natural lighting and dense greenery in the background.

If nothing else, take a stroll through your local woods or park. Pick up trash when possible. Be awed and inspired by earth’s varied beauty and bounty, and as always, reach out to Sweeney’s with your inspirations and aspirations, and we’ll make them a reality!  We proudly serve the communities of Villa Park, Elmhurst, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wood Dale, Itasca, and more!

Sweeney’s:  A Plant Based Company

Plant of the Week

Close-up of a bright yellow daisy-like flower with pointed petals and a textured center, set against a blurred green background.

Prairie Coreopsis

Bright yellow, daisy-like flowers bloom May – July atop sturdy stems.  Prefers full sun and dry soil.  Grows 24-36″ tall and 18-24″ wide.  Attracts butterflies, bees, and birds.  Drought tolerant.  Deer resistant.

“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.”

― John Muir

Well wishes,

Kim Sweeney