Savvy Gardening: Garden Ideas, Tips, Pictures, and More

Gardening lessons from developing countries

Christine — Tue, 15 May 2012 18:44:55 +0000

Gardening lessons from developing countries

(NC)—Any gardener in Canada can share at least one story of challenge and triumph when trying to grow their favourite vegetable.

In Africa, Asia, and South America, families who plant essential food items are constantly challenged by the harshest of climates, a lack of water, and the most basic harvesting tools. Yet, they have learned to be innovative and creative with their knowledge and resources.

Lessons Canadian gardeners can learn from those who plant in developing countries are:

• Diversify by planting different varieties. In drought and pest-prone climates people know not to put all their eggs in one basket. You may love tomatoes but if they don’t come in as well as you hoped, then you can enjoy a back up harvest of cucumbers or peppers.

• Share your expertise with a neighbour. Those who plant in the developing world share their know-how and understanding with their community for all to benefit. Talk with your neighbors to get gardening tips. Implementing their gardening secrets will help your garden flourish.

• Get to know your environment. Your soil may not be appropriate for all types of seeds. Take a cup of soil and study the particles you find in it. Is there clay, sand, gravel, and organic material? Find out what would grow best in the type of soil you have in your garden.

• Remember to share the fruits of your labour. If you are blessed with an abundance of vegetables and fruits, don’t create waste – share with friends, neighbours, and local food banks who accept fresh goods. You can also provide nutritious food to families in developing countries by purchasing vegetable garden seeds for $15, fruit trees for $20, or garden tools for $50 at www.ccfcanada.ca/Gifts. Make a difference to children and families living in poverty.

www.newscanada.com

New rules for rat and mouse pesticides safeguard your family

Christine — Wed, 09 May 2012 17:57:38 +0000

New rules for rat and mouse pesticides safeguard your family

(NC)—Controlling rats or mice in and around the home is a problem most Canadians have to deal with at some point, and the way we do it is about to change.

On January 1, 2013, new measures from Health Canada designed to reduce the exposure of children, pets and wildlife to rat and mouse pesticides (also known as rodenticides) will come into effect. The measures will mean that:

• rodenticides sold to consumers will be packaged with a tamper-proof bait station;

• all rodenticides used in areas that are accessible to small children, pets and wildlife must be placed in tamper-proof bait stations;

• certain high-toxicity rodenticides will only be sold to pest control professionals and farmers.

Tamper-proof bait stations are designed to keep children and pets away from rodenticides, which can be mistaken for cereal or pet food.

From 2007 to the end of 2010, Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency received almost 250 reports of accidental rodenticide poisonings, 20 of which involved humans (all non-fatal) and 226 involving domestic animals.

Pest control manufacturers have until December 31, 2012 to get the new packaging in place. Until then, Health Canada advises us to purchase tamper-free bait stations for use with rodenticides. Consumers should read all label instructions carefully before using rodenticides or any other pesticide product.

More tips on how to safely prevent and control rodents and other pests are available online at www.healthcanada.gc.ca/pmra.

www.newscanada.com

Homemade pesticides can pose hidden health risks

Christine — Wed, 09 May 2012 17:54:19 +0000

Homemade pesticides can pose hidden health risks

(NC)–Gardeners love to get down and dirty in their yard, which includes, of course, the annual battle with grubs, bugs and slugs. Increasingly, however, some enterprising green thumbs are making their own pesticides with the intention of saving the environment, not to mention some money. If this is you, be aware that some homemade pesticides can actually be harmful to your health and the environment.

Consider rhubarb leaves, for example. Some online recipes call for boiling down rhubarb leaves to extract a naturally occurring chemical that can be used to control insects. Sounds harmless enough, but while the tart stalks of the rhubarb plant are delicious in pies, Health Canada advises their leaves contain oxalic acid, a toxic substance that can be deadly to humans if ingested in large doses.

Other hidden risks posed by homemade pesticides include:

• inhaling harmful fumes;

• irritating your eyes and skin;

• ingesting contaminants or harmful substances due to improper preparation, labelling and storage; and

• contaminating cookware and utensils used to prepare or serve food.

Because homemade pesticides are not regulated or tested for safety, Health Canada advises consumers that their use may pose risks to human health and the environment.

Tips about preventing lawn and garden pest problems and secrets to having a healthy lawn can be found online at www.healthcanada.gc.ca/pmra or by calling Health Canada’s Pest Management Information Service at 1-800-267-6315.

www.newscanada.com

Plant biotechnology is safe and regulated in Canada

Christine — Tue, 08 May 2012 18:40:02 +0000

Plant biotechnology is safe and regulated in Canada

(NC)—Research shows that more than half of all Canadians are confused about the meaning of plant biotechnology. We are, however, open to learning more about the topic, especially how technology can improve agriculture.

At its most basic, plant biotechnology refers to a range of techniques used to improve a plant. Some techniques – like traditional breeding – have been going on for centuries, while other methods such as providing a plant with a built-in ability to wards off insects have been introduced more recently.

“Essentially, as scientists discover the genetic makeup of living things, we can better understand what makes plants do what they do and can pinpoint exactly what needs to be changed in order for a particular change to take place,” explains Trish Jordan, chair of the Council for Biotechnology Information. “This makes it easier to do what would have otherwise taken years to achieve through traditional breeding techniques.”

In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Health Canada have responsibility for assessing adapted crops before they are made available for use by farmers.

“Canadian farmers are huge adopters of technology on the farm,” Jordan continues. “They want products that give them an economic and environmental advantage and that makes them world leaders in producing a safe, healthy and abundant food supply. She adds that more than one trillion meals containing biotech crop ingredients have been consumed in the past 15 years.

“Canadians can rest assured that our regulatory system, with all its checks and balances, ensures all products of biotechnology are safe for people, plants and our environment before they are made available to the consumer.”

www.newscanada.com

From seeds to the supper table

Christine — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 17:03:02 +0000

From seeds to the supper table

(NC)—Whether you have a large plot or just a postage stamp, planting an edible garden is a deliciously rewarding culinary adventure that will have the whole family asking for seconds. Save yourself a trip to the produce aisle with these tasty ideas from the experts at The Home Depot’s Garden Centre:

Planting for Taste and More

There is nothing like going out to the garden for dinner—whether it’s for a few lettuce leaves, a cucumber or a handful of cherry tomatoes to toss into a salad. Growing local and savouring the fresh flavour of fully ripened fruits and vegetables is rewarding and something the kids will definitely enjoy. So go ahead and explore your local nursery for edible options that will add variety to your garden and dinner table.

Planting for Looks

You can have your garden and eat it too by incorporating edible plants into your ornamental landscaping. Flowers like red bee balm, roses (petals only), pansies and chamomile can be used in beds to add delectable colour—just make sure to confirm edibility with your local garden centre. Berry bushes like raspberry and blueberry can also work as hedges and ground cover. And don’t forget the greens—kale cabbage and herbs add texture and taste to pathways and decorative urns.

Planting for Size

For a small garden that produces a lot try planting beans, peas, Swiss chard, a variety of tomatoes, and lettuce mixes. These can be potted in a container on a balcony or in a small green space in the front or backyard. If you have more space, squash, pumpkin, cucumber, zucchini, carrots and leeks are good options that need a bit of room to grow. And if you plan to stay in your home or tend an allotment garden for a few years, edible perennials such as asparagus, rhubarb and strawberries will deliver every year.

More gardening ideas are available online at www.homedepot.ca/gardencentre

www.newscanada.com

Green spaces deliver countless benefits to cities

Christine — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 15:13:52 +0000

Green spaces deliver countless benefits to cities

(NC)—Consider for a moment whether you would rather be in a lush park or surrounded by concrete and asphalt. Studies show that not only are people more likely to enjoy communities that are nicely landscaped; they are also more likely to be physically active and to feel safe in those environments.

Other benefits of green spaces include:

• Increased pride in one’s community;

• Higher levels of physical activity;

• Biodiversity thrives because food and habitat for wildlife is provided;

• Reduction in the warming effect of hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt.

Sometimes, though, green spaces need protection from insects and weeds that threaten to overpower the desired plants. In those instances, specialists in this field tell us that pesticides are one tool that can be used to regain a healthy balance in the urban ecosystem.

In Canada, pesticides are assessed by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency to ensure they are effective and can be used safely. According to the agency, this means that not only will the pesticide do the job it was designed to do, but t when used properly, you can be assured that there is no risk to human health or the environment.

More information is available online at www.health.gc.ca.

www.newscanada.com

How to plant and rake without the ache

Christine — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 20:24:26 +0000

How to plant and rake without the ache

(NC)—Winter takes a toll on your garden, but spring takes a toll on the gardener. Gardening season and back pain often go hand in hand, but positioning your body correctly reduces the strain on muscles and joints. Use these tips to enjoy your garden to the fullest throughout the season.

• Alternate your tasks. Switch between heavy chores such as digging and lighter, less physically demanding tasks such as planting.

• Do the “scissors”. When you rake, stand with one leg forward and one leg back. Switch legs and hands every few minutes.

• Kneel to plant and weed. Constant bending can put strain on your back, neck, leg muscles and joints, so kneeling is recommended. Use kneepads or a kneeling mat (with handles) to minimize the amount of bending required, and to make kneeling more comfortable. Keep your back straight.

• Change positions frequently. Make a point of changing position every 10 to 15 minutes. Move from kneeling to standing, from planting to digging.

• Pace yourself. A minimum of three brief breaks each hour is recommended. Take a few moments to move around, stretch your muscles, have a drink or simply sit and relax. Spread the work over several days —you will still achieve the same great results.

More information about how to avoid aches and pains in the garden is available online at www.chiropractic.on.ca. Look for the free program Plant and Rake Without the Ache. www.newscanada.com

Don’t let carpenter ants work their way into your home

Christine — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:15:37 +0000

Don't let carpenter ants work their way into your home

(NC)—What if you had 100,000 helpers to do your household chores this summer so you could go to the beach, or lay by the pool? That’s the number of worker ants the Queen can have at any given time in her carpenter ant colony. And while you may not need that much help to simply get away for a few days, it’s worth remembering that summer is the time when these pests come out to work in full force—and they might be heading for your home.

“Carpenter ants excavate tunnels in wood to nest, which can cause some of the worst pest-related structural damage to your home,” says pest control expert Bill Melville, quality assurance director at Orkin Canada. “The presence of a few ants in a home can typically indicate a much larger colony.”

Take the following steps to keep these pests from creating more work for you this summer:

W—Water and food are key elements that attract ants, so limit these sources by cleaning up spills immediately and storing food in tightly sealed containers.

O—Observe the exterior of your home, looking for cracks and crevices where pests may gain entry, and seal any openings with weather-resistant sealant.

R—Reduce other pest temptations by sweeping, mopping, disposing of trash and cleaning out your pantry regularly.

K—Keep branches and shrubbery trimmed away from your home to help prevent easy access to enter inside.

If you suspect an ant infestation in your home, contact your pest management professional immediately.

www.newscanada.com

Garden projects bring beauty back to neglected property

Christine — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:13:55 +0000

Garden projects bring beauty back to neglected property

(NC)—Enviro-chic no longer applies only to organic and fair trade fashions. The hottest trends in 2012 involve urban renewal projects – particularly community gardens and green-up initiatives. So for those with limited backyard space but dreaming of a beautiful garden this summer, remember that reviving a run-down or over-grown property will deliver benefits for you and for your community.

If you would like to bring the power of plants to an underappreciated or abandoned space, take a look at these tips to get started, from gardening experts at Lowe’s:

• Form a team. Schools, churches, community centres, and local green-up coalitions are great places to search for new members- and no experience is necessary. Post a notice on the in-house communications board searching for like-minded, eco-conscious individuals and be sure to include your contact information and a brief description of your initiative. Choose a team coordinator, preferably one who has some experience in the area of horticulture or gardening, and hold a meeting to discuss your plan.

• What’s your intention? Determine who the garden will serve and its purpose. Some groups build community gardens to improve access to locally grown organic and culturally appropriate food, while others desire a garden full of blooming plants and flowers.

• Find a space. Perhaps you already have a space in mind. If not, get on your bike or pound the pavement. Consult with churches, schools, or not for profit agencies, these groups may own land and have interest in being a part of a garden. Obtain a lease or agreement with the property owner which outlines your group’s and the landlord’s responsibilities for the project.

• Determine the resources. Starting a community garden often requires little funding. However, creating a simple budget will help determine the amount of money and materials that are needed to maintain the project. Pool all the tools and materials within the group, or seek donations from local organizations.

• Get creative. Raised garden beds are low cost, shapely, and easy to build. To create a space that’s versatile and easy to maintain, consider planting a combination of annuals and perennials. Flowering perennial shrubs provide great coverage year over year, and there are many varieties to choose from. Annuals come in full vibrant colours and shapes, and can be switched up each year for a new look. Butterfly bushes are lush and colourful, and will attract gentle wildlife to your garden.

If looking for more inspiration, Lowe’s tells us that any one of their Canada-wide garden centres are equipped to help.

www.newscanada.com

Protect your family from pesky pests this summer

Christine — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:08:46 +0000

Protect your family from pesky pests this summer

(NC)—There’s nothing worse than mosquitoes, black flies, deer flies, and the vicious horse fly putting a damper on the perfect summer day. While these common winged critters may keep us confined indoors from time to time, experts tell us that there are new developments in the field of insect repellents designed to help you enjoy the sunshine, while staying bug-bite free. Take a look at these ideas, courtesy of the home improvement retailer, Lowe’s:

Portable mosquito protection that doesn’t have to be sprayed on is now available. A popular brand called Off Clip-On, for example, attaches to just about anything- including clothing, hats, patio umbrellas, camping chairs and tents. Its battery operated fan distributes an effective field of mosquito repellent for up to 11 hours and it has an on/off switch to conserve the repellent distribution.

Insect-repellent clothing and apparel are perfect for children and adults. From hats to bandanas, to hoodies and socks, insect repellent clothing can be specially treated with synthetic permethrin, a natural substance derived from the Chrysanthemum flower. Permethrin not only repels biting insects such as mosquitoes, fleas and ticks, but it actually knocks them out. The repellent is odourless and will not be absorbed into skin, therefore making it a great choice for children. A quick search on the internet will provide you with a selection of products and designers to choose from.

Combat mosquitoes with the power of garlic. Did you know that mosquitoes have a sense of smell that is 10,000 times stronger than that of humans? It’s true and they are repelled by the smell of garlic.

Insectrol Inc. a company based in Prince Edward Island, has developed Comfort Zone, a strong garlic solution that can be applied to plants, shrubs, adjacent to decks, and near standing water where mosquitoes tend to breed. When applied properly, this natural product repels mosquitoes from the treated area for up to five days. Sold exclusively at Lowe’s in Canada, the Comfort Zone repellent contains no harmful chemicals, and is virtually ordourless to humans within five minutes of application. More information is available online at www.lowes.ca.

www.newscanada.com

Bring nature into play in your own backyard

Christine — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:06:44 +0000

Bring nature into play in your own backyard

(NC)—Creating a personal backyard eco-system is easier than you might think—and it encourages children to connect with nature. If you have room to stake off a corner of your yard, for example, that spot could be made into an inviting ‘personal play garden’ for the kids. Add a raised bed or a container garden—and follow a few more green-thumb tips from home improvement retailer, Lowe’s:

• Allow your children to choose plants that they would like to grow. A family trip to the local garden centre lets you explore the endless varieties of flowers, plants and perennials that are perfect for gardeners big and small. Integrate bright colours and interesting textures, and mix in some vegetables and or herbs. Pumpkins or gourds cover a considerable amount of ground space, but offer a long growing season and can be displayed at holidays. Kids will love picking and eating the strawberries from a hanging basket. Cosmos and snapdragons are colourful and fun and will attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. Lamb’s Ear is durable and soft to the touch.

• Arriving this spring at Lowe’s are Growums by Bonnie Plants, designed to make growing food fun and educational for kids. “Cartoon characters like Coco (chocolate cherry tomato) and Duke the Cuke (straight eight cucumber) introduce children to gardening along with a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition,” said Jeff Howe, president Fernlea Flowers Ltd.

• For cooler climates, consider planting some seeds in containers indoors in late winter/ early spring so that children can nurture the plants over two seasons, and then transplant them when the ground thaws.

• Not all plants are kid-friendly. Avoid plants with thorns or prickly parts such as cactus and roses. Believe it or not, some plants are toxic or even poisonous. A quick search on the internet will provide you with a list of plants that could pose a health risk.

• Add a bird feeder or water feature to attract gentle wildlife to your yard. Although be aware that bees are often attracted to hummingbird nectar as well.

• As with all outdoor activities, children should be supervised at all times when gardening. Use child appropriate gardening tools, and encourage children to wear gloves and safety gear when necessary. The gardening staff at Lowe’s can give you more information on this topic(www.lowes.ca).

www.newscanada.com

Five simple steps to help homeowners ease into spring projects

Christine — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:10:32 +0000

Five simple steps to help homeowners ease into spring projects

(ARA) – Now, while the winter is still around, is the best time for homeowners to get a jump start on planning and prepping for their spring and summer home and garden projects; so when the weather really does warm up, it takes little effort to get the projects underway. In addition to fine-tuning home improvement and gardening plans, it is also a good idea to make certain the required tools are in tip-top shape, so the projects are not delayed.

Here are some ways to prepare for the spring and summer seasons with just a few simple steps:

* Plans – Sketch out those garden plans, and pick the plants that can be purchased or grown from seed. Plans don’t need to be drawn to scale, but they’ll provide great background information for a shopping list. Research how early seedlings should be started, so they’ll be ready for transplant when the time arrives.

Also create plans for any home projects that need to be accomplished. The depth of those plans depends on how complicated the project is. Make certain all permits are in order, if required by the community; and if a contractor is needed, a formal agreement and timeline is in place prior to work commencing.

* Lawn tools – Check pruning shears for sharp blades – and either sharpen or replace them if they don’t easily cut through a small stem of plant material. Also, review lawn mower blades. Check the oil, gasoline and starters on all gardening machinery to ensure they’ll run correctly when needed.

* House tools – A review of all home tools helps to determine if any new purchases – or replacements are needed. This is the perfect time to head to the store and purchase missing tools, add new blades to saws or replenish the sandpaper stash – eliminating wasted time running back and forth to the store.

* Hand tools – A little care can go a long way in keeping your hands and feet – the most valuable tools found in every household – in good shape after the long, dry winter months. These tools are vital to accomplishing everything on those garden and home project lists, and they are often forgotten. O’Keeffe’s Working Hands and O’Keeffe’s for Healthy Feet are both guaranteed to effectively relieve dry, cracked skin in even the most extreme cases. And just a little bit of the highly concentrated, hypoallergenic and odorless creams is needed. Start every project off with healthy hands, and keep them that way throughout the entire season of projects. It’s the best cream for dry hands – especially after the long and dry winter months.

* Materials – As the project season gets closer, start purchasing the materials needed ahead of time. This helps to spread the cost out, and can give an idea of how much time and effort the project will take to be completed. Get started now in matching colors, finding the perfect accessories and even price-comparing between different suppliers to help save money.

For homeowners who haven’t experienced the warm-weather-project itch quite yet, it’s still a good idea to start thinking about those items on to-do lists to help with being prepared and ready to go when the season arrives. It doesn’t take a lot of energy to have a successful spring and summer project season. Don’t forget O’Keeffe’s Working Hands and O’Keeffe’s for Healthy Feet to keep hands and feet in healthy shape to tackle any job.

Invasive species pose a devastating threat to the Canadian economy

Christine — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 14:41:05 +0000

Invasive species pose a devastating threat to the Canadian economy

(NC)—Canada’s wide-open, natural spaces are a source of pride for many of us. But those same natural expanses can also pose a significant challenge when it comes to fighting invasive species like the emerald ash borer and purple loosestrive.

So why is it important to control these species?

“Invasive species have the potential to devastate the Canadian economy, especially in terms of the agriculture and forestry sectors which contribute about $100 billion a year to our economy and are particularly which are particularly vulnerable to their damaging impacts,” says Pierre Petelle, vice president of chemistry at CropLife Canada.

“In the case of agriculture, weeds compete with crops for nutrients, water and space, and if not controlled, insects and disease can damage crops enough to significantly reduce their yield and quality. That’s why farmers use pesticides,” Petelle points out, “to minimize the impact of pests on their crops.”

In the case of invasive species, the damage to agricultural and forestry land as well as other ecosystems can be severe and often irreversible. This, he says, underscores why early detection and access to proper control tools – including Health Canada-approved pesticides are so important.

More information on invasive species is available online at www.invasivespecies.gc.ca.

www.newscanada.com

Try this breakthrough solution for clay or sandy soil

Christine — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 17:14:42 +0000

Try this breakthrough solution for clay or sandy soil

(NC)—If your green thumb is aiming at a garden-of-plenty this summer, don’t let the soil hold you back.

In most Canadian gardens, there is too much clay or sand content, say experts in this field. Both are responsible for a compromised growing environment—and that spells frustration for those of us who work hard to grow flowers, tomatoes, vegetables and fruit.

“For plant roots to thrive, they need a proper balance of moisture, nutrition and aeration,” says Syd Pell at Miracle-Gro. “Clay soil is dense and heavy, with tiny pores, so the oxygen level is low. Water cannot readily pass through causing drainage problems, in effect, drowning the plant. At the other extreme, sandy soil has large pores and is low in organic matter, making it difficult to retain nutrients as water drains away far too quickly. If the roots can’t get sufficient water and oxygen to transport nutrients, the plants will shut down.”

Pell points out that since most Canadian homes sit on clay or sandy soil, creating an improved growing environment became priority number one for the Miracle-Gro research and development scientists. He says that years of research and testing has resulted in an innovative new product called Expand ‘n Gro. With just a single application, this soil mix can turn native soils like clay and sand, into lighter, fluffier, more fertile soil.

“Can you imagine your garden with up to three times more vegetables and flowers, and much larger plants?” he asks. “Those results—including tomato yields that are up to 12 times more plentiful— are recorded in field tests of the new product.”

Pell explains the nature of the innovation:

“Expand ‘n Gro is a planting mix for use in both containers and in-ground gardens. It containsMiracle-Gro plant food—and coir—a sponge-like fibre derived from coconut husks. Once watered, these fibres expand up to 3 times their size. When mixed with a base soil, this creates up to 90 per cent more air space and makes the soil up to 40 per cent lighter. It will improve aeration, moisture retention and drainage, giving nearby plant roots what they need to thrive

“Better still,” he continued, “Expand ‘n Gro is really light to work with. One small bag does the job of a bag three times its size. All the gardener has to do is spread a one-inch layer of it on top of the native soil and mix it in four to six inches deep. After that, the garden’s soil structure will be significantly improved for years.”

www.newscanada.com

Plants need food too

Christine — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 17:10:44 +0000

Plants need food too

(NC)— Farmers tell us it’s true. Flowers, vegetables and fruit must be fed to thrive.

Indeed, throughout the growing season, most plants tend to use up the nutrients in the soil at a rate faster than those elements can be replaced naturally. So in our own gardens, applying plant food to the soil is a step recommended to ensure optimal nourishment. It’s an important step, experts say, and yet perhaps due to the effort required, feeding is often forgotten.

“Veggie gardens are especially heavy feeders and in addition to essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, our plants also need sufficient calcium,” says Syd Pell at Miracle-Gro, a leader in this field.

Pell explains that calcium serves two purposes. First, it assists in the plant’s uptake of other nutrients from the soil. As well, a calcium deficiency can result in disorders like blossom end rot and cracking in tomatoes and peppers; discolored leaves on beans and cabbage; forked roots in beets, and bitter pit on apples.

“This year in the Miracle-Gro line, take a look at our new and easy Shake ‘n Feed,” he continued. “It’s a food that contains all the right minerals and better still, there’s no mixing and no mess. Just shake it on and it will feed your tomatoes, fruit plants and vegetable patch all season long, giving them exactly what they need to thrive.”

Slow-release spells freedom

Most gardeners already know that feeding the soil is important, Pell points out, but many don’t get around to doing it on a timely basis, as they are either too busy or they forget.

“Time-strapped gardeners tell us that it can be a challenge to remember to feed at the proper times and that’s why the slow-release formula of Shake ‘n Feed has made it such a popular food. Gardeners love that they can just shake it—and in less than 5 minutes they are done feeding their plants for the entire season.”

More information on this topic is available online at www.GroForGood.ca—and this spring, theMiracle-Gro Gardening Guide will be distributed in neighbourhood garden centres.

www.newscanada.com

Help to revive bird populations with the right food

Christine — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 17:06:52 +0000

Help to revive bird populations with the right food

(NC)—A study released by the National Audubon Society shows that 20 bird species—including grosbeaks, chickadees and hummingbirds—have lost more than half their populations during the last four decades. Scientists point to logging, mining, drilling, acid rain and basic urban sprawl as many of the reasons for the population declines.

“Birds in the wild are increasingly malnourished,” says Mark Weisz at Scotts Canada, a leading name in wild bird food products. “For optimum health, wellness, beauty—and song—all of our feathered friends must find a balanced diet filled with vitamins and minerals. A lot of standard bird food is lacking in nutrients so that’s why our company asked ornithologists and avian nutritionists to get involved with the research and development of NutriThrive.”

This newest wild bird food, he said, contains an optimized mix of vitamins and minerals aimed at strengthening their bones, their egg shells, and aimed at giving them what they need for maximum energy, healthy molting, and immunity from disease.

“NutriThrive has been extensively field-tested to confirm its appeal to a wide variety of birds,” Weisz continued, “so this seed blend will be a significant new source of food energy for them year round.”

If you too are an avid backyard birdwatcher, you may have noticed a decline in the number and variety of little visitors too. Consider giving them refuge by creating a backyard habitat, enthusiasts say. Here’s an easy guideline from Scotts to set one up:

Water: Place a water dish near the ground for necessary drinking and bathing.

Shelter: Hang a birdhouse in your yard to provide year-round protection against weather and predators. You can also provide shelter by planting evergreen trees and shrubs on your property.

Food: Fill your bird feeders with the most nutritiously reliable bird food available.

www.newscanada.com

Spring Garden Clean Up

Christine — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 20:29:11 +0000

Spring Clean Up

(NC)—It’s almost the time of year again for the annual spring yard clean up! This annual tradition will have many Canadians spending hours outdoors enjoying the warmer weather, basking in the sun as they plant and clean up their gardens after the cold winter. Canadians worry about protecting their gardens from the harsh elements, but often forget to protect themselves, specifically their skin. What Canadians need to know is that they need to do more. That’s why the Canadian Skin Patient Alliance (CSPA) is encouraging Canadians to start another very important tradition – the annual skin check. This year, the CSPA is adding another element to the skin check list – spots that don’t ‘feel’ right.

“An annual skin check is tremendously important,” says Christine Janus, executive director at the Canadian Skin Patient Alliance. “It can help you detect suspicious spots or moles on your skin, including a potentially serious condition called actinic keratosis, or AK which can sometimes be felt, rather than just seen on the skin.”

Although actinic keratosis is one of the most common forms of pre-cancerous skin conditions treated by dermatologists, only 4% of Canadians have heard of it. Early detection is important, as AK can be treated – which is great news because actinic keratosis can potentially go on to develop into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a common form of skin cancer. The number of cases of SCC is expected to nearly triple by 2031.

When conducting a skin check, it’s important to look – and feel – for signs of AK. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Actinic keratosis can appear in many different ways. AK spots range in size from very small to pea-sized or larger.

• AK can also range in appearance from slightly red scaly spots, through to thick, scaly, sometimes crusty spots or patches that feel rough, sore or itchy, like sandpaper.

• If you’re over 40, particularly if you have fair skin and have spent a lot of time in the sun, you are at a higher risk for developing actinic keratosis.

• Additional risk factors include exposure to tanning beds, multiple severe sunburns early in life or a weakened immune system.

So remember, as we start to welcome the arrival of warmer weather and spend more time in the sun, it’s also important to ‘tAKe notice’ of our skin This year, start conducting an annual skin check on yourself and loved ones, look – and feel for signs of suspicious spots or moles and speak with a healthcare professional if you notice anything unusual.

For information about actinic keratosis, please visit www.CanadianSkin.ca/AK.

www.newscanada.com

Design your yard to suit your lifestyle

Christine — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:01:19 +0000

Design your yard to suit your lifestyle

(NC)—A properly landscaped yard can make all the difference in how you enjoy your property. Home Hardware’s gardening expert Mark Cullen says that taking the time to plan your outdoor space carefully will ensure that it is functional and meets your needs.

“Your yard should be pleasing to the eye and be a place where you want to spend your free time,” says Cullen. He recommends that homeowners should take several things into consideration when planning their landscaping projects.

“The most important thing is to look at the entire property and know what you want to accomplish. If you enjoy entertaining, make sure to reserve a space where you can host friends and neighbours,” Cullen says.

A backyard deck or patio provides a great space to enjoy all of the hard work you put into your lawn and garden. Pressure treated wood, cedar, and even interlocking stone can give your entertaining space a beautiful foundation, but also consider some unique lighting and decoration options to improve function.

Are you looking to set the mood for your summer evenings? Consider installing solar lighting, a garden fountain, or a designer fire pit to create the perfect setting for your evening barbecue.

If you enjoy large, robust gardens, Cullen says you should minimize the space used for deck or patio and consider what garden features will enhance the enjoyment of your space, such as specialty gardens for cut flowers, herbs, or vegetables. If you have children, a large lawn or play area may be a priority. No matter the final design, consider including a few focal points such as a water feature, trellis, bird house, or planters to add character. You may not be able to include everything, but a wish list is a vital first step in garden planning.

If you have little time to spend gardening, choose low maintenance, slower-growing plants. If you love to garden and intend to spend your leisure hours tending your landscape, you have a wider variety in terms of design and landscape plants from which to choose.

Cullen says the most important thing is to have fun. “Your yard is where you want to go to relax, so taking a little time to plan out your design will make the job go smoother and be an enjoyable experience.”

More expert gardening advice and product information is available online at www.homehardware.ca.

www.newscanada.com

Try container gardening so you can eat very local

Christine — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:43:13 +0000

Try container gardening so you can eat very local

(EN)—The ‘eat local’ movement started about eight years ago with consumers looking to local farmers with the 100- mile diet, and it has evolved into this season’s 10- pace diet because there is no better way to eat local than to grow food right in your own backyard.

“More and more foodies are becoming gardeners, and vice versa, because they love cooking with fresh herbs and vegetables from their own windowsills or gardens,” says Mark Cullen, the garden expert at Home Hardware.

Cullen says that novice gardeners can produce an abundant and flavourful local harvest, all in containers around their decks and patios, if they follow a few simple tips.

To grow your own vegetables, Cullen suggests the Mark’s Choice Vegetable Seed Collection as a practical way to get started. The seeds were tested and selected by Cullen himself to provide fresh flavour and perform well in Canadian conditions.

The Mark’s Choice Upside Down Tomato Planter makes it easy to grow your own tomato crop a few steps from the back door. This Canadian-made product maximizes the vertical growing space in your yard, balcony, deck, or roof top garden. It drastically reduces plant maintenance and makes harvesting a snap.

“Vegetables growing in containers naturally require added fertilizer on a regular basis,” Cullen says. “Tomato plants, for instance, benefit from an application of Home Gardener 20-20-20 fertilizer every seven to ten days.”

Cullen also points to the ease of growing herbs in containers. Most popular herbs, such as thyme, oregano, tarragon, and basil, originated in the Mediterranean and love hot, dry growing conditions with just enough water. To provide Mediterranean-like conditions, he suggests positioning containers in the sun and trying a soil mix such as Mark’s Choice Veggie and Flower Container Mix, which holds necessary moisture and lets the excess drain freely.

Once you start harvesting your crop, you may find you have more local veggies than you can eat at once. However, with the help of your favourite retailer, canning has never been easier. Next time you’re in Home Hardware, for example, take a look at the Kitchen Value 5 Piece Home Canning Kit. It provides all the basics and allows you to enjoy your homegrown vegetables all winter long.

More expert gardening advice and product information is available online at www.homehardware.ca.

www.newscanada.com

Bell peppers are a bounty of taste and a rainbow of colour

Christine — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:54:40 +0000

Bell peppers are a bounty of taste and a rainbow of colour

(NC)—Most of us have tried a red or green pepper, but how many of you have tried a purple one, or tasted a chocolate-coloured sweet pepper?

“We have developed a colourful, convenient six-pack of assorted bell peppers so gardeners can sample the various tastes and colours in soups, grilled on the barbecue or dunked into dips for a healthy snack,” says Jeff Howe, president of Fernlea Flowers Ltd. “Our range of crisp, glossy, flavourful bell peppers create a colourful accent in any garden and bring healthy benefits to any menu.”

Bell peppers (capsicum annum) contain vitamins A, B and C (175mL per cup, or twice the amount found in a typical orange), plus 30 different carotenoids (beta-carotene and lycopene to name two), as well as powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory flavonoids. Peppers are also packed with dietary fibre.

Allowing bell peppers to ripen on the plant maximizes their vitamin C and carotene content. After picking, peppers will keep seven to10 days in the vegetable compartment of your refrigerator.

Howe adds: “Our Bonnie Plants rainbow, red, yellow and chocolate-coloured bell peppers have a sweet taste. The green and purple-coloured peppers are slightly bitter sweet; but you’ll want to experiment with all of our varieties before choosing your favourite.”

More information about planting and growing is available online at www.bonnieplants.ca. The site will also let you know when the bell pepper bundles arrive at your nearest garden retailer.

www.newscanada.com