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Even in the middle of winter, gardeners can plan for a bountiful harvest, and because February is the shortest winter month, spring is that much closer! To use February to prepare for a productive spring… Plan Your Garden: Take time to decide which plants you'd like to grow and how you will design your garden. Consider light levels, soil condition and your expertise and enthusiasm for a realistic plan. Order Seeds and Plants: If you haven't already ordered seeds and plants, February is the time to do so in order to have your plants ready for planting at the appropriate...

Deer may be elegant, attractive wildlife, but they can be some of the worst backyard and garden pests as they damage trees, eat gardens and flowerbeds, trample foliage and leave feces throughout the yard. While fences can be effective at keeping deer away, harsh barriers can also be eyesores. Fortunately, there are several natural ways to deter deer that are inexpensive, easy and effective. Strong Odors Deer have sensitive noses and tend to avoid areas with strong odors that might conceal predators or other threats. Crushed garlic cloves can be sprinkled on mulch, or spread human hair clippings to give deer...

It may seem like there is no gardening to do during the holiday season, but in reality there is still plenty to keep enthusiastic gardeners busy even when the weather outside is frightful. Gardening in December means… Pruning for Natural Decorations Pruning berry-laden twigs, lush pine boughs and plump seed stalks can yield beautiful accessories for natural centerpieces, flower arrangements, mantle swags and other decorations for the holiday season. Choose the best trimmings for decorating, or add a unique touch by accessorizing them with holiday bows or metallic paint. Continuing to Compost Your compost pile needs care year-round, and turning...

When birds migrate, many of us think of a flock of geese flying South in a V-shaped formation. However, birds migrate for many different reasons in many different ways. Birds typically migrate because they seek to move from areas of low or decreasing resources to areas where there are high or an increasing number of resources in the form of food and shelter.  Food and nesting locations are the two biggest reasons why birds migrate in the first place. Birds can migrate during all times of the year. As August approaches, fall migration begins. During this time almost any potential...

Nothing is cozier on a cold winter evening than a crackling fire, warm and glowing, in the fireplace or stove. Wood heat is also less expensive than many gas or electric furnaces, and can be more practical for home heating and cooking in many areas. But how should you store your firewood to be sure it is ready for winter use just when you need it most? Bad Storage Leads to Bad Results No matter how much firewood you have on hand, it will be useless if it is stored incorrectly. Badly stored wood will remain damp and wet, which...