I shook the last flakes from my oregano jar into my spaghetti sauce last night. I started to add it to my grocery list and I had one of those 'aha' moments. I’ve got a bunch of oregano growing outside this summer. Why not dry some to refill my spice jar? I’ve never bothered to dry anything from my herb garden. It seems a little silly that I’ve … [Read more...]
3 Ways to Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes
Warm weather is here and the mosquitoes are already biting! With diseases like West Nile virus and Zika that are transmitted by mosquitoes, you’re going to need some protection. Mosquito Protection The first step is to avoid getting bitten -- wearing long sleeve shirts and pants are a great idea towards avoiding contact with mosquitoes. There are … [Read more...]
Best Feeders for Backyard Birdwatching: Review of Tube Feeders
Even if you have great backyard habitat that includes native plants, shrubs, and trees with an adequate water source, adding bird feeders to your garden can attract even more birds. I get a lot of enjoyment watching the birds out my back window. During spring migration this year there have been indigo buntings, goldfinches, rose-breasted … [Read more...]
Colorful Shade Container Garden Part I
If you've got shade but still want color, here is an example of how to add color to your shade gardens in containers. Read this earlier post for suggestions of plants with colorful leaves or flowers that can be used in shade gardens. Container 1: Coleus, ferns, heuchera, and impatiens This pot contains coleus, heuchera, ferns, and … [Read more...]
Landscape Solutions for the Base of Trees
Updated: Nov. 5, 2016 Leaving the base of the tree bare can often look unkempt or out of place since it's not easy to mow right up to the edge of a tree or to even weed-eat around it carefully. Plantings or mulching around the base of the tree trunk can not only help protect roots from the mower's blades, but also make your existing trees a part … [Read more...]
Best Hummingbird Feeder: Review of Four Types of Feeders
Watching hummingbirds is one of my favorite past times. Not only do we have a lot of plants that the birds can feed from, but we also hang up several feeders. There are many different types of hummingbird feeders available. The best ones are easy to clean, easy to fill, and are sturdy enough to last several years. I have reviewed four popular … [Read more...]