Archive for December, 2009

Birds vs. Squirrels

Tuesday, December 22, 2009
posted by MyGardenSanctuary

bird feederWhereas there are a number of benefits to putting a bird feeder in your backyard, there’s also the issue of what to do when squirrels invade them, trying to get at the bird food you’ve set out. Obviously, squirrels have a size advantage over birds, as well as agile characteristics, so they can get to the food before our winged friends can.

Luckily, finding a squirrel proof bird feeder isn’t too difficult; in fact, it’s downright easy. There are several birdfeeders on the market that range in protection, but all of them have the same results: keeping squirrels out. When you’re shopping for a bird feeder, squirrels might be something you’d want to consider.

Creating a Unique Garden Pathway

Tuesday, December 8, 2009
posted by MyGardenSanctuary

stepping stonesTo add stonework and a unique pastoral appeal to your home or garden, consider a custom designed garden pathway.  Creating a garden pathway is a relatively simple task.  You will need stepping stones, a shovel or trowel, and a bit of grass seed if your path is moving over grass.  To get started, plan out your path using a stepping stone, and mark four perimeter points of the stone with quick thrusts in the ground from a shovel or trowel. Once you have planned out your path, begin digging out the dirt where each stepping stone is intended to go. You want the stone to be submerged within the ground, but not enough to be covered over with dirt or growing grass.  In general, you want about one half to one fourth of the thickness of stone above the surface.  This might require you to fill in holes with more dirt, or dig them out more now and then.

When the holes are dug, simply place the stepping stones down, fill in the perimeter with dirt, and then spread grass seed over the area.  You will also want to spray a bit of water on your new pathway regardless of whether you used grass seed or not, as this will help the stones sink into the dirt.