Mertensia virginica—commonly known as Virginia bluebells—plays a vital role in supporting early-season pollinators at a time when food sources are scarce. Blooming in April, just as many native bees, bumblebees, and butterflies begin to emerge from dormancy, these flowers offer essential nectar and pollen when little else is in bloom. For pollinators, especially those with early flight periods, this dependable native is a lifeline.
If you're looking to bring a touch of spring magic to your garden, Virginia bluebells are an ideal choice. Their delicate bell-shaped flowers and lush green foliage brighten up woodland gardens, shaded borders, or any area with moist, well-drained soil. With their low-maintenance nature and graceful, ephemeral charm, they not only delight the senses but also contribute meaningfully to a healthy and biodiverse garden each spring.
The Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is a must-have for homeowners looking to add beauty, shade, and sustainability to their landscape. Fast-growing and highly adaptable, it thrives in city settings, providing cooling shade, cleaner air, and natural stormwater control.
The Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea), also known as Red Osier Dogwood, is a hardy and adaptable native shrub that provides year-round beauty and ecological benefits in Chicago and the Midwest.
Baptisia, commonly referred to as false indigo or wild indigo, provides a number of significant benefits during the winter months, even though it is a perennial plant that typically dies back completely to the ground in colder climates. Here’s a closer look at how this remarkable plant can positively contribute to your winter landscape and enhance the overall ecosystem during the colder season:
At Rooftopia, we believe in creating spaces that transport you to another world, and our latest project is no exception. Inspired by the enchanting charm of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved novel, "The Secret Garden," this lush and elegant private rooftop serves as a serene escape right in the heart of Wrigleyville.
Leave the Leaves: Embrace the Benefits of Nature’s Free Mulch
As fall approaches, many gardeners, landscapers and homeowners gear up to rake and bag leaves, tidying up our yards before winter arrives. But what if I told you that leaving leaves in your garden beds could be a better option for your plants, wildlife, and the environment?
In the ever-evolving landscape of urban living, rooftops are increasingly being transformed into vibrant green spaces and urban landscapes are being designed to fit the hustle and bustle of city life. Gardens and green spaces not only elevate the aesthetic charm of buildings but also play essential roles in environmental sustainability and community cohesion. Additionally, gardens act as natural sanctuaries for self-care, offering a serene and therapeutic environment that can significantly reduce stress and enhance overall well-being for urban dwellers. One of the key elements that contribute to the success of these green oases is efficient irrigation, and drip irrigation stands out as a game-changer, especially for home owners and gardeners who have busy schedules or travel regularly. Automated watering systems offer versatility to ensure that plants receive the right amount of water with minimal waste to maintain lush landscapes with less worry and less effort.
Artificial turf, also known as synthetic grass, faux or fake grass, has gained popularity as an alternative to natural grass in various settings such as sports fields, residential lawns, and commercial landscapes. While turf appears to offers many conveniences, our conclusion is that artificial turf (aka Astro Turf) is not good for the environment and may have health risks for children and pets. As a company geared toward sustainability and environmental stewardship, we wanted to express our concerns and provide insight as to why we are choosing not to use artificial turf or plastic plants going forward.
Artificial turf was invented by Monsanto (ah-hem), in the 1960’s for the Houston Astrodome, due to the lack of sun in the stadium. With the rise in popularity to use artificial turf as an alternative or replacement for lawns in shady spaces, high traffic areas like parkways, areas prone to drought where water usage is a concern, muddy spots, or areas frequented by dogs, we recognize why turf seems like a convenient solution in the moment, however there are numerous concerns for the long term affects of using plastic turf and unfortunately the costs outweigh the benefits.
We are always excited about green roof projects because of their numerous benefits. Green roofs benefit all urban residents with cleaner air, water, decreased noise pollution and improved health.
Rooftopia, LLC has been officially certified as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise by the City of Chicago. Jenn Lassa is the majority business owner/operator of Rooftopia, LLC. She runs the business with her husband, Marcin Matlakowski.
