About Jeff Rugg

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.

...

New Peonies Grandma Would Love May 20, 2026

Q: I have some old peonies that flop over every spring, so I use a wire frame to keep them straight up. I saw some peonies in a landscape the other day that have very sturdy-looking stems that don't seem to need a frame. Any idea on what they are? A:... Read More

...

Lilies Can Kill Cats May 13, 2026

Q: Don't know if an editor cut out the data, but how can Jeff Rugg do an article on Easter lilies and not mention that they are toxic to cats? Even eating one part of a flower will kill a cat. This is under-promulgated data! A: You are right. The fac... Read More

...

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