Pesticide-free insect control has become especially important for Ontario homeowners after the provincial government introduced the Cosmetic Pesticides Ban on Earth Day, April 22, 2009. Luckily there is a natural way to control the pest population: birds. Many naturalistic/wildlife gardeners have known this little secret for years. By providing the bird basics – food, cover and nesting sites –you will attract all the pest-devouring birds you yearn to see in your backyard. The key to providing this bird nirvana is selecting the right plants.

American Robin Snapshot By Lee Karney

Written on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 in Plants

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What is it about human nature that always wants what they don’t have? Last weekend my friend, Mary, was complaining about her sandy soil garden. None of her favourite flamboyant colourful flowers could grow in her small sunny front garden. If only she had rich loamy soil, her gardening problems would be over.

Written on Thursday, February 23, 2012 in Blog, Plants

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A couple of weeks ago, gardeners in northern North America were worried about the buds breaking prematurely. Gardeners on social media were wringing their hands in worry. But really it’s not a huge problem. Sure, there may be a few less flowers in spring, but most shrubs and trees will survive. The real problem is the numerous freeze/thaw cycles, which damage plants if garden beds haven’t been mulched.

Written on Thursday, February 9, 2012 in Blog, Gardening

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