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November 27, 2002

Giving Thanks...
As I type this message I am thinking about all of the things that need to be done for tomorrow.  I have been to the grocery store several times already this week and certainly won't be surprised if I have to go tomorrow.  The memory sure isn't what it use to be.  Kevin's parents, Mary and Larry are here from Maryland for a holiday visit.  We are all so excited that they are here to spend some time.  I am looking forward to using some of Mary's expertise.  Mary is a Master Gardener as well as a professional floral designer so you can understand my enthusiasm for having her here while I decorate for the Christmas season.  I will try to include photos in next week's issue so that you can see the wonders of her work.  She really is quite talented and I have learned so much from her over the years.  She is but one of the many talented gardening people in my life.  It all started with my grandmother, my father and Kevin's mom.  Of course Kevin is a constant influence and my number one supporter.  We certainly are a team and work well together.  I am so blessed!  I hope to continue the gardening lineage as I, in return, teach my children the joys of gardening.

We will pause tomorrow from the usual craziness around this house to give thanks for the great lives we have.  We are thankful for each other, our health, family, great friends and all of you!  Please have a very safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

~ Shelly  

Keeping A Hose Handy...
Last week we talked about the proper way to store your garden hoses for the winter.  One of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy lawn is keep it watered during a dry winter.  If the weather is dry and the temperatures are favorable we will remind you from time to time to get out the hose and water.  If possible keep the hose in a heated garage or basement so that it is flexible and ice free when you need it.  

Bundle Up For Winter...
Young thin-barked trees, such as maples and many fruit trees, are especially susceptible to frost cracking or sunscald.  Prevent damage by wrapping their trunks with commercial tree wrap or painting the south and southwest-facing sides of the trunk with white latex outdoor paint.  

Cold Facts On Watering Houseplants...
Before you give your houseplants that next drink you should know that according to Ohio State researchers cold water can destroy the ability of root cells to take in water and nutrients.  Water below 50°F was found to reduce leaf size, cause leaf drop, and eventually contribute to the death of potted plants.  Those requiring frequent watering, such as spathiphyllum and ficus, are especially prone to damage and should not be watered with water below 65°F.  Other tests show that warmer water (about 90°F) actually stimulates growth.

Source

Favored Foods For Feathered Friends...
Birds are finding it harder and harder to find reliable food sources.  Once we get some snow cover it will be especially tricky for our feathered friends to get a good bite to eat.  Keep your feeders full and you will be rewarded with beautiful garden visitors year round.  If you're interested in attracting specific birds here are some popular birds and their favorite menu items:

 Source

Worm Wisdom...
If earthworms have been important residents in your garden beds make sure you give them the right winter protection.  Basically it's important to know that they must remain below the frost line in order to survive.  Simple mulching is part of the solution but you can actually direct your earthworms to specific action by the amount of mulch you use.  If you want earthworms to help break down organic matter in the upper soil layers, mulch deeply.  If you need the subsoil aerated, leave the surface mulch thin; the worms will burrow downward to stay warm.  How's that for savvy?

Winter Wisdom...
From the number of calls on the subject that we continue to receive, many gardeners have questions about plants they have brought into their homes for protection after a spring and summer on the patio or terrace.  Acclimation, lighting, water, even stowaway bugs are covered in this week's Winter Wisdom...

Talk About Hungry Plants...
If you're looking for a way to get a small child interested in gardening you might consider growing some carnivorous plants indoors this winter.  We're talking about Venus Fly Traps, Pitcher Plants, and Sundew.  Any and all of these insect eaters will capture the imagination of kids (of all ages).  Some hints:

• Carnivorous plants require a moist, acidic growing medium, high relative humidity, and bright light.
• Try growing them in a fish aquarium or large terrarium.  A piece of Plexiglas placed over the top will help maintain a high relative humidity.  Ventilation can be provided by keeping the Plexiglas slightly ajar.
• Use 2 parts sphagnum peat moss and one part coarse sand as a growing medium. Place one inch of coarse gravel on the bottom before adding the growing medium.
• Good lighting is essential for carnivorous plants. An east or west facing window that receives at least 1 or 2 hours of direct sun is fine.  A fluorescent light fixture containing two 40 watt tubes can be used in poorly lit areas.
• Day-time temperatures should be 70° to 75°F during the summer and 55° to 60°F in winter.
• Water with rain or distilled water.  Tap water may be too alkaline or contain too many minerals.
• There is usually no need to fertilize carnivorous plants. These plants are native to areas with low nutrient levels.

Source

Finally...
"For flowers that bloom about our feet;
 For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
 For song of bird, and hum of bee;
 For all things fair we hear or see,
 Father in heaven, we thank Thee!"

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson, Poet, (1803-1882)

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