Now that the shortest day of the year has passed, we can begin to think about spring flowers. Sure, we still have a few months to make it through (and many snow storms), but with the beginning of the new year, we can start to dream about spring blossoms. Some of my best memories include spring flowers.
For me, daffodils signal the end of a long winter. How this delicate flower can push through the last remaining bits of snow to show its golden petals is a miracle in and of itself. Because I moved into my current home in
Archives for December 2011
Straw Erosion Blankets
by Heather Duchan December 28th, 2011 | Landscaping
If you have any sloped areas in your yard, you're probably already aware of the erosion that happens. When surface water moves down the slope, vegetation and soil is washed away, leaving an ugly patch on your lawn.
The good news is that there are some fairly simple ways to control this erosion and get your yard looking green again. One popular option is using straw erosion blankets. These will help keep water from flowing so quickly, and they will improve the soil. Straw erosion blankets are also eco-friendly, as they are made from renewable, bio-degradable resources.
If this seems like a good
The good news is that there are some fairly simple ways to control this erosion and get your yard looking green again. One popular option is using straw erosion blankets. These will help keep water from flowing so quickly, and they will improve the soil. Straw erosion blankets are also eco-friendly, as they are made from renewable, bio-degradable resources.
If this seems like a good
Growing Elderberries
by Heather Duchan December 27th, 2011 | Fruits
Elderberries are useful woodland plants with a unique taste and high amounts of vitamin C. Their flowers and fruit are often utilized to make jellies, wines, fritters, pies, chutney, pancakes, and non-alcoholic drinks. Both attractive and easy to grow, elderberries thrive up to Zone 4.
You can find elderberries in the spring, either at nurseries or in the wild. Those found in the wild should be of a manageable size and packed in mulch to transplant.
When growing elderberries, you will want to ensure cross-pollination happens so your plants will bear fruit; therefore, you'll need two or more cultivars planted within 60 feet
You can find elderberries in the spring, either at nurseries or in the wild. Those found in the wild should be of a manageable size and packed in mulch to transplant.
When growing elderberries, you will want to ensure cross-pollination happens so your plants will bear fruit; therefore, you'll need two or more cultivars planted within 60 feet
Winter Squash
by T Akery December 23rd, 2011 | Vegetables
Winter squash is one of those vegetables that is associated with the holidays, but gets virtually ignored in most recipes. The main reason that they are associated with the season is because of their looks. Their interesting shapes and color varieties often make them ideal centerpieces; however, they can be very tasty on the dinner table. Plus, home growers can easily plant these types of squash in their gardens.
There are many varieties of winter squash. The most popular for eating are the butternut and spaghetti squash. Although, the acorn, the delicata, turk's turban, and cushaw squash are just a
There are many varieties of winter squash. The most popular for eating are the butternut and spaghetti squash. Although, the acorn, the delicata, turk's turban, and cushaw squash are just a
Have a Green Container Garden
by Anna P. December 21st, 2011 | Container Gardening
You love to garden, and you love how it feels to give back to nature. It's important to know that a truly green (i.e. environmentally friendly) garden doesn't stop at just planting the seeds and watering the plants. You can take small steps to choose organic or natural products to enhance and grow your garden to its full potential. Here are some smart ideas to get you started.
1- Use Organic Compost
When it comes to gardening, organic is almost always the way to go. You can purchase organic compost, or you could make your own. According to Herb
1- Use Organic Compost
When it comes to gardening, organic is almost always the way to go. You can purchase organic compost, or you could make your own. According to Herb