Mistletoe Unveiled: Nature's Stealthy Parasite

The Backyard Naturalists

Welcome to another captivating episode of The Backyard Naturalists! In this week's exploration of the wonders of nature, hosts Debbie and Laurie (joined by Chris) delve into the intriguing world of mistletoe, a parasitic plant with more than 1500 species found globally.

Tune in as they unravel the mysteries surrounding this unique plant, its diverse host trees, and the varying impacts it can have on its hosts – sometimes benign, other times detrimental. Forget the plastic versions from Hobby Lobby; discover the real, year-round presence of mistletoe in the wild. Join us on this botanical journey and gain a deeper appreciation for the hidden stories within our natural surroundings. And, of course, learn more than just the tradition of a kiss beneath the mistletoe.

Happy listening, nature enthusiasts!

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Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don’t forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

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While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer’s Market this Saturday morning.