News

Wild birds have a rich and varied diet in spring, summer, and autumn when different foods are abundant, from buds, blossoms, and nectar to seeds, fruits, insects, nuts, and grain. But what do wild birds eat in winter when snow and ice hide many foods, and what foods can you offer at your feeders to provide superior nutrition to your feathered friends? Natural Foods for Wild Birds in Winter There are more natural foods available for wild birds in winter than many people realize. Before the ground freezes in late fall or early winter, bluebirds and other thrushes will dig...

Houseplants can be an amazing accent to your home, but the right houseplants are more than just living decorations or a way to bring a love of gardening indoors in all seasons. These popular plants can help clean the air in your home and create a fresher, healthier atmosphere for you and your family. How Houseplants Clean the Air All plants take in carbon dioxide and emit oxygen, but some plants do much more to scrub the air. Depending on the plant, its size and its overall health, a houseplant can… Remove odors from pets, cooking, exhaust and other sources...

The start of a new year is a great time to start new gardening tasks, and savvy gardeners know there is plenty to keep busy with in January, even if the garden may be buried under ice and snow. Whether you are just starting out with a first garden or have years of experience, there is always more to do to improve a garden and be sure it is its beautiful, blooming, bountiful best. In January, gardening means… Recycling the Christmas Tree If you used a cut Christmas tree, add it to a brush pile or chop it up for...

It may seem like there is no gardening to do during the holiday season, but in reality there is still plenty to keep enthusiastic gardeners busy even when the weather outside is frightful. Gardening in December means… Pruning for Natural Decorations Pruning berry-laden twigs, lush pine boughs and plump seed stalks can yield beautiful accessories for natural centerpieces, flower arrangements, mantle swags and other decorations for the holiday season. Choose the best trimmings for decorating, or add a unique touch by accessorizing them with holiday bows or metallic paint. Continuing to Compost Your compost pile needs care year-round, and turning...

Some people believe that Christmas just isn’t Christmas without a real Christmas tree. In any case, there are some steps you can take to make sure your tree stays healthy and well-preserved throughout the holiday season. • Prepare For Your Tree: Make sure you have a stand that can hold at least one gallon of water. Though you should expect the tree to soak up additional water, this is probably sufficient. Also make sure you refresh your tree by making a straight cut, taking one inch off the bottom. This will improve water intake. • Watering Your Tree: Always keep...