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.

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Pruning Climbing Roses for More Flowers Sep 16, 2026

Q: I walked around the corner of my house to a side yard that isn't used much. There are two rose bushes that are planted next to the house with trellises. I was surprised to see 8-to-10-foot rose branches hanging down to my knees, way out over the l... Read More

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Renovating a Lawn Sep 09, 2026

Q: Our lawn took a beating this summer. I was thinking that I should plant a cover crop of grass seed this fall so that it could start growing in the spring. Would that work? I have a pretty big area to cover. A: It could work, but you should plant t... Read More

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Growing Pumpkins Sep 02, 2026

Q: My pumpkins have turned orange, and it is still two months until Halloween. What do I do now? A: If the last few inches of the stem next to the pumpkin have turned brown, it is best to harvest it. If it is still green, leave it in the garden. If y... Read More

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Spindle Galls and Moving Lilies Aug 26, 2026

Q: I bring most of my houseplants outdoors for the summer. We have had a lot of wind and rain this summer, but except for a few tattered leaves, they are doing well. However, several different kinds of plants are producing new leaves that are a yello... Read More