Sloughing off the final olive-drab layers of a season past, a sapphire carpet of Spring ephemerals arose as the Redbud’s ethereal blooms cast a cheery glow unto the scene. Swelling buds and nodding Daffodils dotted the landscape as the grass grew green and lush. Spring was in full swing.
There’s no coincidence that we celebrate Earth Day next Monday, April 22nd. It’s a day to celebrate earth and demonstrate our support for her well-being. In some ways, it’s become synonymous with the whole green movement, more specifically the global climate change initiative. No matter where you stand on the whole global warming/climate change debate, Earth Day is a great day to honor nature and appreciate all her diversity and splendor, and we’ve put together a few, reasonable ideas to help you celebrate:
Start a Garden
It doesn’t have to be anything grand or complicated. Consider planting in containers or raised beds. It need not take up much space or require tons of time or money. Basically, plant something – anything. Perhaps you have a favorite flower or vegetable. Give it a go.
Go Paperless
When possible, opt for electronic billing as opposed to paper bills. Some companies now charge for paper bills, so you’ll save money and clutter too.
Compost
Start turning garden and select kitchen waste into gardening gold. Start a compost bin or pile.
Upcycle and Recycle
Get crafty by upcycling items. Got a bunch of glass bottles? Consider making a bottle tree. Upcycle old containers and use as unique planters. Recycle clothes, books, etc. by donating. Keeping things out of the trash is a win-win.
Plant Native
Consider adding Native plants to your yard/garden. Native plants generally require little to no maintenance, so no supplemental watering or chemicals are needed, and local wildlife are drawn to them.
If nothing else, take a stroll through your local woods or park. Be awed and inspired by earth’s varied beauty and bounty, and as always, reach out to Sweeney’s with your inspirations and aspirations, and we’ll make them a reality.
Plant of the Week
Prairie Smoke
Graceful pink flowers bloom April – June, followed by gauzy seed heads that resemble hazy smoke. Prefers full sun to partial shade and dry to medium dry soil. Grows 12-18″ tall and 12-18″ wide. Attracts bees and other pollinators. Native.
“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”
-John Muir
Best wishes,
Kim Sweeney
Help the bee population and plant native flowers!
Hi Tom! You are absolutely correct! Amongst its many attributes, native plants attract pollinators of all kinds, from bees to butterflies to hummingbirds, and even moths and some wasps.