Feeding Birds Remember to keep your bird feeders full! If you haven't filled it since the fall, empty out any existing feed and fill it with fresh seed. If you would like to attract particular birds try the list below: Mourning Dove — black-oil sunflower seeds, white and red proso millet Blue Jay — peanut kernels, sunflower, seeds of all types Chickadee — black-oil and striped sunflower seeds, peanut kernels White-breasted Nuthatch — striped sunflower seeds Red-breasted Nuthatch — striped and black-oil sunflower seeds Starling — peanut hearts, cracked corn House Sparrow — millet, canary seed Red-winged Blackbird — white and red proso millet Common Grackle — striped and hulled sunflower seeds, and cracked corn Cardinal — sunflower seeds of all types Evening Grosbeak — sunflower seeds of all types House Finch — black-oil and striped sunflower seeds, niger Dark-eyed Junco — white and red proso millet, fine cracked corn White-throated Sparrow — black-oil and striped sunflower seeds, white and red proso millet, peanut kernels Song Sparrow — white and red proso millet For more bird information go to Hinterland Who's Who Back to Top
Overwintering Herbs While fragile herbs like basil are best replaced each year, tender perennial herbs like rosemary and marjoram can overwinter on a windowsill. But remember, even though these herbs will stay green, don't expect much growth. After all, the plant is resting. Get a head start. A few weeks before the first expected frost, move your plant into a pot, being sure to keep the rootball intact. A clay pot is best, a fibre pot is also a good choice (both allow air circulation through the root zone). Trim the plant back to 1/3 or 1/2 its height. Inspect the plants for insects and if you find bugs, treat with a soap-based insecticide. Before moving herbs indoors, gradually reduce watering, and for a week or two, set the pot in the shade. At the first frost warning, re-check your plant for insects and if it's clean, bring the plant indoors. Placing the pot in a sunny window is ideal, but ensure the daytime temperature doesn't go above 18°C. Good air circulation is also essential as it helps prevent mould or fungus. If the room is still, a small fan will do the trick. These plants are used to arid, well-drained soil, so let the plant dry out thoroughly between waterings. When you do water, soak the plant thoroughly and let the excess water drain away. If the foliage yellows, you're watering too often or letting the roots get too wet. Let the plant dry out a bit between waterings. With a little TLC, your plants will make it through the winter months and be ready to grace your garden again come spring. Back to Top
