Natures Source

02/15/2026

Grow your own saffron — straight from your garden to your table. WHY GROW SAFFRON? You can grow Saffron (Crocus Sativus) from zones 4-10. Saffron is a fall blooming crocus. Planting between Aug-Oct. & harvesting Oct-Nov. Saffron is the most expensive spice. Saffron corms reproduce- new corms grow ...

02/12/2026

Learn how to cultivate mushrooms, herbs, and other forest crops under your trees with guidance from UGA Extension experts.

01/21/2026

A Colombian city has made incredible strides in combating urban heat and improving air quality by planting over 2.5 million plants and 880,000 trees in green corridors. These efforts have successfully lowered the city's temperature by more than 2°C. This initiative shows how urban areas can take tangible steps toward sustainability and environmental resilience.

By transforming concrete jungles into green oases, cities can dramatically improve their climate and livability. Trees and plants play a crucial role in regulating temperature, improving air quality, and providing a habitat for wildlife. This is a shining example of how urban planning and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand to create healthier, more sustainable cities.

This green revolution also serves as an inspiration for other cities worldwide. In the face of climate change, urban areas have a unique opportunity to innovate and reshape their landscapes for the betterment of future generations. 🌱🌆

11/01/2025

10/09/2025

🌱 Shoot System (Above Ground)
The shoot system is primarily involved in photosynthesis and reproduction.

Structure Function

Apical meristem: Region of actively dividing cells at the tip of the shoot; responsible for primary growth (growth in length).

Node: The point on the stem where a leaf (and a bud) is attached.
Internode: The section of the stem between two nodes.

Axillary bud: A bud found in the axil (angle) between the stem and the petiole; can develop into a new branch or flower.

Petiole: The stalk that attaches the leaf blade to the stem.

Midrib: The main central vein of a leaf; part of the leaf's vascular transport system.

Margin: The edge or border of the leaf blade.

Dorsal/Ventral Dorsal: refers to the upper side of the leaf (often darker) and Ventral refers to the lower side (often lighter).

Proximal/Distal Proximal: refers to the part of an organ closest to the point of attachment (e.g., the base of a leaf blade); Distal refers to the part furthest away (e.g., the tip of the leaf blade).

🌳 Root System (Below Ground)
The root system is primarily involved in anchorage, absorption, and storage.

Structure Function

Primary root: The first root that emerges from a germinating seed (radicle); in the illustrated taproot system, it is the main, dominant root.

Secondary root: Also called lateral roots; these are branch roots that grow out sideways from the primary root, increasing the area for absorption.

Root hair: Microscopic, thin-walled extensions of root epidermal cells that dramatically increase the surface area for the absorption of water and minerals.

Root system: The collective term for all the roots of a plant.

10/11/2024