About Jeff Rugg

Jeff Rugg

With degrees in science, zoology, horticulture and landscape architecture Rugg uses his many interests to help others learn about nature. He has managed garden centers in Texas and Illinois and owned a water garden and wild bird nature store.

He is currently an employee of Pond Supplies of America. His articles and photographs have appeared in Pond Keeper, Water Garden Magazine, Landscape Architect and Specifier News, Landscape Contractor Magazine, Ponds USA, American Nurseryman and other publications. He is currently an Illinois Certified Nurseryman and Registered Landscape Architect.

Mother's Day for Gardening Moms May 06, 2026

If you have a mother or are married to a mom who is a gardener, this article is for you. If you are the gardening mom, then leave this article where someone you know can read it. Mother's Day is May 10. If it is not yet May 10, then keep reading. If ... Read More

Proper Lawn Mowing Height Apr 29, 2026

Q: We moved to another area of the country, and the lawn grass is totally different. The grass variety here would be a weed in my former lawn. It is also being mowed much lower than our old lawn, but the company doing the mowing says it is the proper... Read More

Amaryllis Seeds and Flooded Vegetable Gardens Apr 22, 2026

Q: About a month ago, I harvested two seed pods from a beautiful waxed Amaryllis that was done flowering. The pods are in the refrigerator. One opened and the seeds are black, so maybe they are not good. I prepared a few flowerpots with expanded shal... Read More

Pond Turtles and Dragonflies Apr 15, 2026

Q: We have fish and plants in our backyard pond, but now we would like to add turtles and dragonflies. How do we get them in the pond, and are they safe to have? A: Some wild animals will find their own way into the pond, and others you have to add. ... Read More

View More from Jeff Rugg