Saturday, March 28, 2009

THE HUMMERS ARE COMING!


Somewhere around St. Patrick's Day, the Hummingbirds make their way to
Augusta. I asked Local Hummingbird Expert, Barbara Botts, to tell us three things we need to know about hummers...

The more feeders you have - the more birds

Hang feeders in the shade if possible. You might consider a squirel baffle over them to shade them and also offer protection for birds. They also make small baffles for this purpose.

Hang feeders as close to your viewing area as possible so you can enjoy their antics.

Clean feeders with 2 Tbs Clorox to gallon of water - allow to soak, rinse, and air dry. Do not use soap or put in dishwasher.

If ants are a problem, you can purchase an ant trap to hang above the feeder. As a temporary measure, apply vasoline to the hanger.

Make your own nectar, one part sugar to 4 parts water. To remember this, spread your hand out - count 4 fingers for water and thumb for sugar. Food coloring is not recommended nor necessary.
Re vasoline --
(I do not like this because I have found a bird feather on the hanger)
Just chose what you like and feel free to change.
Have you decided on the Spring Challenge yet? I hope so.
Please post a comment on what you are doing...
ML




Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Spring Garden Challenge 2009



Hello All.

Great weekend to plan your Spring Garden

for the MLCHgarden Challenge 2009! The economy

and "going green" have inspired many of us to grow our

own this spring/summer. Here are ideas and guidelines to


get you started...


Guidelines
1. Pick out your garden spot. Make sure it's a sunny area, easy to get to and easy to water.
Can be a container, small area in yard, large field or whatever space you choose!


2. Make a list of your favorite veggies. Talk to family about what they like to eat.


3.Check out this website for a Georgia veggie planting calendar



4. Work on your soil. Check to see if your potential garden spot is fertile soil or clay. You can add organic material such as manure or peat moss. I've had great success with Miracle Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix, if you are using containers.


5. Post your progress & questions on this blog or email me mlchgarden@comcast.net



the girls on the farm.









Ideas to get you started!

What to grow?

3 Sisters Garden...corn squash beans

Herbs! Easy and fairly drought tolerant & available now at garden centers.

Salad Makins ....lettuce (plant now!) tomatoes, onions, basil, cucumbers

Send me your ideas!

ML




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