Ask Dr. Phipps: Balcony Oasis

By Phipps Master Gardeners

Q: I have two balconies and a back deck on which I would like to include some plants in containers. We have room for trees and shrubs as well as other flowering plants. Can you give me some advice in order to get started? A: As...

This Week at Phipps: June 29 – July 5

By Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

There's always something new to see and do at Phipps! This weekly blog post provides a run-down of the latest happenings so you can plan your visit. Events listed below require no advance registration unless noted...

#bioPGH Blog: Amphibian Development, Part One – Frogs

By Dr. Maria Wheeler-Dubas, Research and Science Education Outreach Manager

It’s the perfect time to pay homage to our “slimy” residents of the season—amphibians!

What We’re Cooking With Now: Jicama

By Chris Cox, executive chef, Café Phipps

Looking for adventure in the kitchen? Our monthly What We're Cooking with Now post features a fresh produce ingredient, explains how to find the market's finest, and includes a recipe to try at home....

Ask Dr. Phipps: Pollinator Plants

By Phipps Master Gardener

Q: I am interested in information about creating a native plant landscape in our backyard in Pittsburgh. I cannot find a list or website that clearly states which plants are pollinator friendly and good for bees in Pennsylvania....

The Biophilic Mind: Can beautiful nature make you nicer?

By Dr. Katilyn Mascatelli, Ecopsychology Research Scientist

Do you think nature is beautiful? Or do you tend to see more brown toads than colorful rainforest frogs? On this blog I have shared many images that are aesthetically pleasing—lush forests with dark green foliage, mountain...

This Week at Phipps: June 22 – 28

By Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

There's always something new to see and do at Phipps! This weekly blog post provides a run-down of the latest happenings so you can plan your visit. Events listed below require no advance registration unless noted...

#bioPGH Blog: Poison Ivy

By Dr. Maria Wheeler-Dubas, Research and Science Education Outreach Manager

What can we do about that three-leaved itch-producing plant? Is it useful at all?

Ask Dr. Phipps: Growing Milkweed

By Phipps Master Gardener

Q: Do you have any tips on growing milkweed?  I live in the South hills of Pittsburgh.  Every other weed loves my property! A: Thank you so much for contacting Dr. Phipps. Your interest in milkweed plants indicate that...

Ask Dr. Phipps: Damaged Trees

By Phipps Master Gardeners

Q: The leaves of my Japanese maple are orange and falling. Can you tell me what is wrong? Will they recover? A: Most Japanese maples seen in this area are Acer palmatum which has palmate leaves with 5 to 7 toothed lobes. Acer...

Virtual BioBlitz Family Fun Festival Resources

By Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

While the format of our BioBlitz Family Fun Festival was a bit different this year, we hope that you still enjoyed a fun day of learning how to be a citizen scientist at home, working to embrace nature in your own backyard and...

#bioPGH Blog: Black Birders Week

By Dr. Maria Wheeler-Dubas, Research and Science Education Outreach Manager

If you follow natural history pages and topics on social media, in the last few days you have probably come across sparks of celebration and belonging – Black Birders Week.