Hummingbirds have almost reached southern Illinois and it won’t be long until they return to our backyards. After their winter vacation in Central America, hummingbirds started their trek back to our landscapes in January. Males started the journey first; females followed a couple weeks later. They flew 500 miles across the Gulf of Mexico and… Continue reading Hummingbirds will be back soon!
Winter is a tough time for birds. To help our feathered friends survive winter, here are the three most important things we can do to help them. Provide shelter. Birds need a sheltered spot, shielded from wind and rain, where they are protected from predators. To stay warm, some species grow extra feathers. Others fluff… Continue reading 3 Most Important Things to do for Birds in Winter
I recently took a little time to review the past growing season while it was still fresh in my mind. I organized plant labels, seed packets, and notes; looked through photographs; and read entries in my garden journal. In January and February, I grew several varieties of amaryllis. They provided magnificent blooms for this winter… Continue reading Looking Back at the Season
Birds that decide to stay put instead of wintering in warmer haunts need our help to thrive in the cold weather ahead. In return for food, shelter and water, they repay our generosity with their songs, color and entertaining exploits. A bird-friendly garden is planted in layers. Large evergreens and shade trees form the top… Continue reading Keep birds happy and healthy in winter.
With Thanksgiving just a couple days away, I am counting my blessings. Family and friends top my list of things for which I am most thankful, but my garden follows close behind. I took a few moments to remember the past year in the garden and sum it up in a letter of thankfulness. Dearest… Continue reading Thankful for the Garden
