Bumblebees: Guardians of Biodiversity

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Bumblebees, also known as humble bees encompass over 250 species within the genus Bombus, a member of the bee family Apidae. The genus Bombus is the only surviving lineage within the Bombini group. While fossil records indicate the existence of now-extinct related genera like Calyptapis, Bombus stands alone today. Bumblebees are primarily found in the …

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Crown Gall: A Gardener’s Guide

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Crown gall, a serious plant disease caused by the bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens, is characterized by the formation of large, tumor-like growths. These galls typically develop at the crown of the plant (where the stem meets the roots) but can also appear on stems and roots. By disrupting the plant’s water and nutrient transport systems, these …

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How to Grow and Care for Kiwi Vines

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Kiwi plants, part of the Actinidia genus, originate from the mountainous regions of southwestern China. While the specific origins within China may differ among species, their primary ancestral home is undeniably China. Kiwi plants thrive in a wide range of climates, from cooler to warmer regions. These versatile plants produce delicious and nutritious fruits, making …

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How to Grow and Care for Baby’s Breath Plants

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Baby’s breath belongs to the genus Gypsophila. These delicate flowering plants are part of the carnation family, Caryophyllaceae. Native to a vast region encompassing Africa, Australia, Eurasia, and the Pacific Islands, Gypsophila boasts remarkable diversity, particularly in Turkey. In fact, Turkey is a hotspot for Gypsophila diversity, hosting approximately 35 unique species. Some of these …

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Blooming Beauties: Growing Shrimp Plants

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Shrimp plants (Justicia brandegeeana), also known as false hop or Mexican shrimp plants, are indigenous to the Central American region. This includes Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. Popular for their unique, beautiful appearance, shrimp plants have naturalized in various parts of the world, including the plains of Florida. These evergreen, hardy plants belong to acanthus family …

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