With all the recent snow and sub-zero temperatures, ‘tis the time for scooping and sprinkling sidewalks with ice melt. What many homeowners don’t know, however, is that most ice melt materials contain large amounts of salt. This can be very harmful to the plants in your yard. After winters of use, the salt can build up in soil and dry out your plants, from the roots up. There is more than one way to keep your neighbors and visitors from…
Don’t let fires take you by surprise Even though we are coming out of one of the coldest weeks in March on record, it is not too soon to start planning for wildfire protection. As the Marshall Wildfire proves, fires that claim hundreds of homes don’t just happen in the heat of summer. Prevention against fire anytime during the year starts with planning now—particularly how to plant and maintain your landscape this spring. As winter turns into an early spring, create…
Not all soil is created equal. Soil serves many important functions in an ecosystem. Whether it is in your landscape or an indoor pot, soil is the medium for your plants to thrive. USDA’s National Resources Conservation Services notes that high quality soil performs five functions at the same time: Soil… Acts like a sponge, soaking up rainwater and limiting runoff. It also helps with groundwater recharge and controlling rainwater runoff in urban environments. Acts like a faucet, storing and releasing water…
Are your garden tools ready for winter? Take some time now to clean them up and protect them from the elements. You’ll thank yourself next spring when they are ready and waiting when it’s time to get into the garden again. Once you’ve mowed the lawn for the last time this season, prepare it for sitting dormant. Disconnect the battery and spark plugs. Clean it up. If it is gasoline-powered, drain the gasoline. Consider changing the air and fuel filters if necessary.…
