Although it’s the shortest month of the year, this February just as well could have been the longest, with seemingly endless wind, snow and bitter cold putting a hard stop to most outdoor activities. Now, with spring weather here, it’s time to get on with early spring tasks around the yard and enjoy some fresh air and the warmth of sunshine on your face. First, if you haven’t already, [...]
Gardening? In this weather? I know what you’re thinking, and you’re right—at 20 degrees, with frozen ground and blowing snow, we’re a far cry from the early spring we were expecting as recently as two weeks ago. Later this month, though, as the temperatures begin to warm, it will be time to assess the damage, replant pots for early spring and get back to gardening, so here are some tips [...]
If you’re someone who loves to try your hand at growing things, you know that a gardener’s work is never finished. Not that that’s a bad thing—anyone who has a hobby they enjoy is never really finished with it! In this “off season,” however, gardening takes a back seat to the busyness and joy of the holidays, and besides, the cold, dark days prevent very much outdoor activity. If you’re [...]
Days of sub-freezing temperatures, a dusting of snow, stiff winds, and a north-county ice storm for the record books. Suffice it to say, winter is in full swing in the Pacific Northwest, and whether you’re in the midst of cleaning up after the last storm or just want to be prepared for the next time wicked weather hits, here are some tips to take care of your trees. First, [...]
In the last couple of years, we’ve come to associate winter in the Pacific Northwest with mild temperatures and minimal precipitation. This year is so far proving altogether different, and though we’re still a week away from winter’s official arrival, one look out your window will tell a completely different story. With the new season upon us, here are a few tips to keep your plants healthy and happy through [...]
With the Christmas season comes tradition. Whether favorite family movies, the annual choosing-of-the-tree, grandma’s sugar cookies or playing a classic Christmas album, December is marked by tradition. While it’s not a month typically associated with gardening, plants certainly have their place in the holiday season, and as you go about your Christmas decorating and gift-giving, it might be time for a new Christmas tradition. If asked to picture a [...]
Yesterday I had the task of raking the leaves that had begun to pile up in my yard. I have a feeling I'm not the only one doing that this time of year! After last week's wind storm, I imagine many people have piles of leaves on their lawn and in their flower beds. As we prepare for winter, now is the time to start working on your fall checklist. [...]
