Birds in Winter

From the Bartlett Arboretum's weekly newsletter, I am happy to share the following:

Over Wintering Birds Food is scare for all wildlife in winter. Many species depend upon supplements from their human hosts. Finding bird feeders that only feed birds is difficult as their competitors, squirrels and chipmunks are creative foragers.  Bartlett Arboretum friends, Designs by Lee, Keough's Hardware and Wild Birds Unlimited in Bedford & Darien offer bird feeders that are less likely to become squirrel feeders. Birds need high protein foods in the winter to help maintain their body temperatures. Look for suet mixes and feeds that contain nuts.  Shell free feed is available if you are adverse to the mess. Providing shelter also give the birds in your garden a better chance of surviving winter. Cleaning out the birdhouses in your garden will keep them disease free while providing an attractive home for overwintering birds.  Fall is the perfect time to clean.   If you are interested in learning how to clean your birdhouses, please click here: Birdhouse

Ready for Spring Planting

Are you ready?
Here are a few photos to illustrate how good basic design will enhance your garden's appearance and productivity. This beautiful garden is at Davenport Ridge ES in Stamford,CT. Beds for early vegetables, for herbs, edible flowers, and more flowers for their beauty and fun. Sunflowers anyone?
Notice the beds of varying shapes and heights and angles. And birdhouses to bring in nature and additional visual appeal and the "ooh" factor. 
Time to: clean-up, amend the soil, set out the first tender plants or seeds: peas, lettuces, radishes, carrots, chards,  etc. Let's get growing!  'Tis the season.