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Laura Betker

Minneapolis

Mom of three, pollinator-friendly gardener, sustainability and regenerative ag advocate, wine drinker, IPA lover, @KARE11 Meteorologist

Featured in: Favicon kare11.com Favicon valleynewslive.com Favicon wcnc.com Favicon wqad.com Favicon wtol.com

Articles

  • Best plants for attracting hummingbirds in Minnesota

    1 week ago | kare11.com | Laura Betker

    GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Early May is when hummingbirds return to Minnesota for the warm season, and when they arrive, the fast-moving birds are HUNGRY. You can always hang a liquid feeder to help out, but planting the right flowers can also attract these feathered favorites to your garden. For those in Minnesota's Zone 4, consider incorporating the following flowering plants that are not only beautiful but also provide the nectar that hummingbirds feast on.

  • Grow with KARE: Fast-growing trees

    2 weeks ago | kare11.com | Laura Betker

    GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Friday we wrap up a month of talking about trees by tackling the topic of fast-growing trees. People ask us to recommendations on fast-growing trees all the time. We have a list of some trees that grow fast, but it’s not without consequences. Hybrid PoplarGrowth Rate: Up to 5-8 feet per year. Considerations: Quick shade and windbreak, but can have invasive roots and a short lifespan. Weeping WillowGrowth Rate: 4-6 feet per year.

  • Top blooming trees to transform your yard this spring

    3 weeks ago | kare11.com | Laura Betker

    GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — We continue with our focus on trees this month with guidance both on selecting and choosing a thriving location for your new tree. In this week's offering, we are listing our favorite blooming trees! If you’ve got space in the yard, add one of these for some great spring color. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)Features: Produces vibrant pink blossoms in early spring, offering a stunning contrast against bare branches.

  • Grow with KARE: Things to consider before planting a tree

    1 month ago | kare11.com | Laura Betker

    GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — In honor of arbor day and earth day this month, Grow with KARE is spending all of April talking about trees. If you’re thinking about planting a new tree there are some things to consider. Ask yourself these questions from the Minnesota DNR. 1. Are you looking for an evergreen or a deciduous tree? Evergreens make good windbreaks year round and provide winter interest.

  • Grow with KARE: All about boxelder bugs

    Nov 15, 2024 | kare11.com | Laura Betker

    GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — I’ve yet to meet someone who actually likes or even appreciates boxelder bugs. Most of us could do without these crawly creatures that seem to stick around all fall and winter. They are extra noticeable this time of year because they congregate on warm surfaces like the sunny southern and western sides of our homes. Several usually even make it inside. Outside or in, boxelder bugs do not bite or cause any harm to humans.

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Laura Betker
Laura Betker @LauraBetker
22 Feb 23

We're in the lull of the storm with plenty more still on the way, but here's a look at totals as of this morning. Don't see your town? Let us know how much you have to shovel so far! #kare11weather https://t.co/ByIuvYPIKh

Laura Betker
Laura Betker @LauraBetker
12 Dec 22

RT @NWSTwinCities: You know the phrase "everything but the kitchen sink"? Well, this week's weather is everything INCLUDING the kitchen sin…

Laura Betker
Laura Betker @LauraBetker
12 Dec 22

Unacceptable @FedEx. And there was no local weather delay yesterday… @FedExHelp can I get a delivery please!!! https://t.co/49JaKmLpGP