As the weather starts to shift & vibrant colors of autumn will come and go in Portage Park. At that point, its time to shift attention to preparing our yards for the approaching winter season. Next week we will send reminders about best practices for prepping your homes and investment buildings.
This transition period during October and November is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of not just our plants and trees but also the local bird and insect populations that rely on our green spaces. In this guide, we'll explore steps you can take to create a nurturing environment for all these aspects of nature.
1. Winterizing Your Plants and Trees:
Pruning: Trim back overgrown branches and dead foliage to prevent winter damage.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs to insulate roots from freezing temperatures.
Watering: Hydrate your plants adequately, especially before the ground freezes, to help them survive winter dry spells.
2. Bird-Friendly Yard:
Bird Feeders: Set up bird feeders with a variety of seeds and suet to provide essential food sources.
Heated Birdbath: Invest in a heated birdbath to offer clean water when natural sources freeze.
Shelter: Plant evergreen trees and shrubs to create sheltered areas for birds during winter storms.
Keep up those nesting bird boxes. while they won't use it for nesting, there a chance it can aid to shield from cold winds for those birds that find themselves caught by a cold windy or snowy storm. Typically birds huddle together during winter to leverage body heat.
3. Beneficial Insects:
Leave Some Debris: Avoid excessive fall clean-up to provide overwintering spots for beneficial insects.
Native Plants: Consider planting native species that support local pollinators and insects.
Limit Chemicals: Refrain from using pesticides and herbicides that can harm insect populations.
4. Protecting Your Garden:
Cover Sensitive Plants: If you have delicate perennials, consider covering them with burlap or frost blankets.
Bring Indoors: For potted plants, move them indoors or to a sheltered area to avoid frost damage.
Compost Leaves: Rather than discarding fallen leaves, compost them to enrich your garden's soil for the coming spring.
Preparing your Portage Park yard for winter is not just about safeguarding your plants and trees; it's about creating a welcoming haven for the local wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects. By taking these steps during October and November, you can help your yard thrive through the winter months and ensure it's ready to burst back to life when spring arrives. Embrace the changing seasons and the magic they bring to your outdoor space
コメント