What would catch your eye more – a photo of a bald eagle or a photo of a freshwater mussel? If both were asking for funding for important conservation work, which would you donate to? For many people the bald eagle is the easy choice. This comes down to the species’ charisma, and some human psychology. Charisma might be something you associate with the recent pop culture term “rizz,” but it can also be considered an attribute of many species. A charismatic species is well-known and popular, and is typically large, somewhat-dangerous, or appealing to humans in some way or another.

The idea that plants benefit from kind words, or from speech in general, has roots that go back at least to Charles Darwin, who supported the concept. Sound evidence that speaking to plants makes them healthier came to light several years ago – it turns out the “silly” folks who talk to their gardens and hoe plants have been right all along.

Proceeds from calendar sales benefit Nature Up North's community outreach initiatives. Each year, Nature Up North reaches hundreds of local residents through guided hikes, paddles, workshops, and K-12 programs. Thanks for your support!