Wildlife
October 8, 2026
7 min read
Zone 4
To winterize a backyard pond in Zones 3 to 6, net it before leaves drop, clean out the muck by late October, stop feeding fish once the water stays below 50°F, and keep one hole open in the ice all wi...
Wildlife
October 7, 2026
6 min read
Zone 5
Heated Bird Baths and Winter Water for Backyard Birds A heated bird bath or a thermostatic bird bath de-icer keeps water open when temperatures drop below freezing, and it can attract more winter bird...
Suet Feeders and Winter Bird Feeding: What Works For winter birds, the most useful setup is a suet feeder, a tube or hopper feeder with black-oil sunflower seed, and a heated bird bath, placed within ...
Bulb Cages to Stop Voles and Squirrels The most reliable way to keep voles and squirrels from eating fall-planted bulbs is a wire bulb cage or a box of 1/2-inch hardware cloth buried around the planti...
Deer Repellent for Fall and Winter Browse Deer pressure climbs as natural forage fades. Repellents help when you reapply on schedule especially after rain and when you combine them with plant choice a...
Native plant meadow gardens are a beautiful and sustainable way to transform your landscape, offering a haven for local wildlife and a low-maintenance alternative to traditional lawns. Creating one in...
The debate over native vs. non-native plants is a nuanced one, with valid points on both sides. While native plants are generally considered beneficial for local ecosystems due to their adaptation to ...
Why Native Plants Matter: The Complete Guide Native plants are the cornerstone of a healthy, thriving ecosystem, playing an indispensable role in supporting local wildlife, conserving water, and build...
Best Native Plants for Rain Gardens Rain gardens are a beautiful and effective way to manage stormwater runoff, reduce pollution, and create vital habitat for local wildlife. The best native plants fo...
Best Native Plants for Dry, Sunny Conditions Creating a thriving garden in dry, sunny conditions can be a challenge, but it's also an incredible opportunity to embrace the resilience and beauty of nat...