A little planning goes a long way This week brings another round of fresh snow and extremely cold temperatures to the North Country. So, it may be hard for many to think greenery and gardens. Our very nature tells us to bundle up, enjoy some comfort food and stay indoors. However, a plan to...
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The Unseen Gift of Snowfall
I measured 38 inches of snow blanketing my gardens yesterday. In the 27 years I have been in my home here in upstate NY, I don’t ever recall this amount of snowing falling at once! Yes, accumulations over several storms…but never this much in one sitting. Another rather unwelcome experience in this year of...
Using Plants that Reseed in your Gardens
Have you considered the value of plants that reseed themselves when designing your sustainable garden? Over the years I have used a variety of annuals and perennials to meet the needs of problematic sites. I have also found value in overall garden designs. Fall is a good time to check out your garden for...
My August Garden
July’s high heat and humidity can really take it’s toll on the August garden. That is why I stress taking the time and effort at the front end of the gardening season to use common sense/sustainable practices. It will assure you a beautiful August garden with abundant blooms and color. Mr. Binx is enjoying...
Dance of the Gardens
Growing up my mom shared her love of movies and musicals with me. She would save her earnings to take the family to local theater productions and movie musicals on the big screen. I so loved the dance performances by greats like Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron. Although I never acquired the...
Celebrate Pollinator Week: Visit a Local Pollinator Friendly Garden
June 22nd through the 28th we celebrate pollinators and their huge role in the balance of our ecosystems. Although we hear and read much on pollinators, have you ever visited a truly “pollinator friendly” garden? There is one located right in your backyard. The National Museum of Dance Gardens located at 99 South Broadway...
Garden Hidden Treasures During Quarantine
Have you noticed an uptick in people and their families pursuing gardening? Seed vendors have been sold out of many vegetable and flower seeds. Garden gloves, tools, pots and growing supplies are in short supply on store shelves. My greenhouse friend says he has been swamped (so glad to hear a local small business...
Gardens Keep Us in Balance
gardens provide mind body balance
These past few weeks have upended our lives in unimaginable ways. Things like social distancing, shelter in and massive job loses have brought life as we know it to a screeching halt. My old Occupational Therapy training and 20 plus years of gardening experience tell me meaningful daily activities will help me manage these...
Late Winter Garden Chores
The February meltdown has begun. The calendar tells us Spring will officially arrive March 19th. Are you ready for the 2020 gardening season? Before the last 2 weeks of snow dumps, I was out assessing my gardens, making notes of things that need attention. Apparently, I neglected to get all those acorns out of...
Invest Time in Good Fall Garden Practices
The Case for Investing Good Fall Garden Practices The leaves are changing colors, and beginning their rapid downfall into my garden beds. My perennials are browning out and drooping heavily in the beds.The acorns are dropping by the thousands! I am often pelleted by them as I begin my fall garden work. Hmmm….lots of...