Summer is upon us and school is getting out. This means mosquitos. And although they are largely a nuscence in the United States, several diseases like the Zika Virus and Malaria are serious consequences to these vectors. Whether you’re motivated by lack of insect bites or something much more serious, here are a few surprising … More 4 Surprising Ways to Combat Mosquitos
“Use what you have.” These are words we live by at our home. Let me introduce myself: I’m Kristin. I’m one of five members of a family we affectionately call “TheKBand”. Some days, our family is just that: a wonderful band playing together a beautiful tune. On most days, we all have different sheet … More Why Having “Just” Enough is Enough
With an unseasonablly mild winter, we can all get excited about starting a garden. Read this to know how a modest budget can get you started! … More How $40 and an Afternoon Can Start Your Garden
Lilacs are one of the most fragrant reminders that spring is here. It is hardly a surprise that entire cities, like Rochester, New York’s Lilac Festival, celebrate its arrival every year. Yet, it seems a cruel reality the bush blooms only 2-6 weeks in early spring. With such an abundance of lilacs, on roadsides, industrial parks and maybe … More The Secret to Enjoying Lilacs Year-Round
If you have a large enough yard for farm animals, peacocks are one addition you don’t want to leave out. Although not a producer of meat or eggs (at least not that we plan to consume!), we’ve discovered a surprising love for this eccentric bird. They get along well with other outdoor pets- We have … More Five Reasons You Should Have Peacocks
One of my life’s great benefits is living within walking distance of many of my friends. One of these friends, happens to be Mel. I have known Mel for almost a decade. I love her. I adore her, really. She’s funny, kind, compassionate, artistic and she loves plants. The two of us were on a walk … More Why You Should Find a Gardening Buddy
Why mother hens in your life are special and unusual- and what they need! … More Broody Hens Provide Surprising Insight On Mother’s Day
Don’t waste too much time searching on-line, wondering what to plant in your climate, your soil type and at this time. Your next-door neighbor likely already knows! Those who have a similar passion for any topic become fast friends- plus, gardeners love to share homemade zucchini bread and canned cranberry sauce! Meet a few of … More Why You Should Meet Your Neighbors
Incorporating ground cover to your garden may not sound like much, but has been the single greatest improvement I’ve made to my garden since starting. Paul Gautschi has been a gardener for over 55 years and currently lives on the Northern Peninula of Washington State. Like most of us, he put serious elbow grease into … More The Best Gardening Trick Everyone Should Know