 WINTER
GARDENING TIPS
|
While
on my way to work this morning, I stopped at the local "7-11"
to get my daily dose of java. Sherry, one of the "7-11" staff,
greeted me with her usual smile. She announced that the crocus were
trying their best to spring up from the soil in her garden. Is this
the sign that we are all waiting for? Is Spring trying to display
itself?
Even
though it is still Winter, we can being to plan for Spring.
So with this in mind, let's do our winter chores with anticipation of the
coming season. There is much to do.
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Plan
your spring garden. Decide what new plants you want, vegetables,
herbs, etc.
-
Now
is the time to test any seeds left over from last year. Place them
in a damp paper towel and keep them moist. After a week or so, if
you see signs of germination, these seeds are still good. You can
obtain a seed starting kit and get a jump on your crop.
-
Check
all your garden equipment. Make repairs, if necessary.
-
Discard
old/outdated chemicals properly.
-
Cut
back your ornamental grasses. Trim any dead tops of your perennials.
Prune any dead branches and limbs from your trees. To be sure the
limb is dead, it will usually be very brittle and easy to remove.
This practice will not harm your trees.
-
Clean
up debris in and around your yard and garden from storms and wind
damage.
-
Remember
to clean your bird feeders on a regular basis during this winter season.
A good rinse and refill of the feeder keeps the birds healthy and happy.
Moist seed at the bottom of the feeder may breed disease.
-
Explore
different options of landscape design.
-
Last,
but not least - remember Spring is just around the corner!
Ellen E. Lynn
Updated: 01/04/03
