Eco Gardeners

Winter is a season usually overlooked for soil conditioning, however, during lawn dormancy, the soil is still capable of improving in structure and aeration.  Providing nutrients now will condition the topsoil and help nourish grass roots. While colder climates will require gardeners to wait a month or so for the snow to thaw, warmer climates should begin treating lawn soils now.

Applying compost to your lawn in winter will provide the grass with a much better start and stronger root system in improved soil for superb spring re-growth.  Here’s what to do:

1.     Use Fine-Textured Compost:  Start with rich, fine textured compost. The best and cheapest compost is the kind you make yourself by recycling your kitchen and garden scraps. (Want to learn more about DIY composting? Go to www.eco-gardeners.com for lots of helpful info).
2.    Spread the Compost:  You can simply use a shovel to disperse compost over lawn area.
3.    Rake Evenly: With a garden rake, spread the compost over your lawn to about ¼ inch thick. It doesn’t take a lot to do a lot of good. The thin layer will break down quickly and release its nutrients into the soil and lawn. You won’t be able to see the compost once raked in.

One of the greatest pleasures of winter is to look out over my backyard and see the activity at the bird feeders.  We have our bird feeding station within easy view from our living area. Here are some tips for keeping your feathered friends comfortable during the cold, winter months:
-    Suet is one of the most important foods to offer in winter.  It is a high source of energy and protein;
-    Birds need water all year long.  A small pan or bowl of warm water everyday will help increase the number of birds;
-    Evergreen trees can offer shelter to many birds.  Collect pinecones, spread with peanut butter and roll in birdseed to attach to the limbs of the tree;
-    You may want to put extra seed out during the winter months.  Also, try a Bird Buffet of nuts, fruit, bread, pastries and popcorn;
-    Spread peanut butter on the bark of a tree and sprinkle with birdseed;
-    During the winter months, put your feeders close to trees.  This will provide birds with cover;
-    Squirrels seem to follow the birds to our feeders so keep them happy with corn and/or peanuts. You may consider THG’s fun Squirrel-a-Whirl to provide them with food and you with laughter!

Simple Suet Recipe: Provide your birds with high energy, home-made suet balls. Serve them on your Happy Gardener Feeding Skewers:
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup lard or animal fat
1 cup flour
3 cups corn meal
Optional- dried fruit cubes, crushed nuts, oats
Mix ingredients well. Roll into 5” diameter balls. Place on a greased cookie sheet, freeze and serve.