Blog
What Your Trees Are Telling You: Understanding Heat and Drought Stress
Three straight days of dangerous heat, and heat index values between 105° and 115° aren't just hard on us—they're hard on our landscapes, too. During periods of extreme heat, like we experienced early this week across Nebraska, you may notice your trees and shrubs...
Best Climbing Trees for Kids in Nebraska | Trees for Summer Adventures
Looking for the best climbing trees for kids in Nebraska? Large shade trees with exceptional climbing branches, cooling canopies, and wildlife value — such as Silver Maple, Northern Red Oak, Shingle Oak, American Sycamore, and Ohio Buckeye — can help create outdoor...
Our #1 Shrub of 2025: Prairie Willow
If you follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter, you’ve recently discovered that our top-selling shrub of 2025 was Prairie Willow (Salix humilis). And truthfully, we are not surprised at how well-loved this native is. Prairie Willow may not be flashy...
Winter Pruning 101: Timing, Structure, and Spring Success
Winter may look quiet above ground, but it’s one of the most important seasons for long-term tree health. Late winter pruning allows arborists to clearly see tree structure, reduce disease risk, and guide healthy growth before spring begins.
How Much Water Is in Snow?
This year, December arrived and ushered in the holiday season with a beautiful blanket of snow! My kids were excited that it already felt like Christmas and happily pulled all their snow gear out of storage to rush outside and play. It may not have been the same...
The Last Trees of Fall: Late Color, Leaves & Seed Pods
Just when we think fall has slipped away, a few trees keep the season alive a little longer—burning with late color, clinking with seed pods, or rustling with leaves that refuse to drop. These are autumn’s last storytellers, holding onto the season until winter finally settles in.
How Weather Shapes Fall Color
As days shorten and temperatures cool, chlorophyll fades and hidden pigments emerge. Discover the science behind Nebraska’s brilliant fall colors — and why this year’s display is especially vibrant.
The Art of Bark: Trees with Stunning Texture & Color
When fall colors fade and leaves drop, trees with unique bark take the stage. From the ghostly white Sycamore to the copper curls of River Birch, these species bring texture and contrast to winter landscapes. Their patterned bark and sculptural forms offer lasting beauty long after the growing season ends.
Part Two: From Fall Foraging to Mental Health
Fall nutting isn’t just about gathering acorns — it’s about planting the next generation of oaks, feeding wildlife, and even boosting your own mental health. Discover how this simple fall tradition connects food, ecology, and wellness.
Go Nuts! Fall Foraging in the Great Plains
Early to mid-fall is primetime for foraging nuts in Nebraska, and we’ve prepared a guide to gathering and enjoying nuts so that you can enjoy the bounty of the Great Plains for fall treats now, or as part of a thriving landscape in the future!
Supporting Fall Migration with Native Plants
In 2025, peak bird migration in Nebraska runs Sept 18–Oct 16. Learn how native berries, seeds, and shelter support birds on the move — and how your yard can help.
Foraging the Late-Summer Landscape
Discover the flavors of late-summer foraging with native fruits like elderberry, chokeberry, pawpaw, and persimmon. Learn when to harvest, how to enjoy them, and why fall is the perfect time to plant these wildlife-friendly favorites.
Storm Resistant Trees for the Great Plains
Not all trees are created equal. Explore storm-resistant tree species, proper pruning tips, and how to plant for long-term resilience in the Great Plains.
Weathering the Great Plains: Summer Storms & Tree Trouble
Summer storms are sneaky. Learn how to spot tree risk before it turns into storm damage, and set your landscape up for a safer fall.
Planting Trees in Clay Soil: Tips for Healthy Roots
Roots are the hidden engine powering your trees—but clay soil can hold them back. Learn how to identify your soil type, choose native trees, and create the conditions roots need to thrive.
Hardy Arborvitae Alternatives for Nebraska Landscapes
Tired of browning Arborvitae? Learn why it struggles in Nebraska and what to plant instead.
Planting Trees in Nebraska Landscape: Right Tree, Right Place
At Great Plains Nursery, we specialize in native trees and shrubs that enhance the ecological value of your property. Choosing the right tree for the right place ensures beauty, resilience, and habitat value for years to come.
Sustainable Landscaping with Fruit Trees
Discover how sustainable landscaping with fruit trees benefits both people and wildlife. This guide covers fruit tree varieties we offer, plus tips for growing with purpose in Nebraska.
Native Shrubs That Birds Love
Looking to support birds beyond trees? These native shrubs that birds love provide essential food, shelter, and nesting cover—all while enhancing your landscape.
Trees That Birds Love: Top Native Trees for Bird Habitat
From black cherry to hackberry, explore our top native trees for bird habitat in Nebraska. These resilient species provide food, shelter, and nesting support for birds all year long.
