Composting, Trimming Shrubs, Dormant Yard

Compost added to veggie bed

Cut back shrubs

January view from deck

Flowers in Winter

Our winter flowers are blooming nicely.  I fertilized again today with miracle grow.  We did touch 32 degrees  this week but nothing froze hard.

Rain Barrels

Now we just need rain to fill them up!  No painting, modifying or installation required.  Joe does plan to connect with PVC pipe.

New rain barrels from  "Dave the Barrel Man"

BSW Volunteer of the Year Award

Last night I was awarded a plaque for volunteer of the year for my work on oak wilt.  It was nice to be recognized at the BSW Annual Homeowners Meeting on January 16, 2013

Trenching the Green Belt

Tree Trimming

The front trees were trimmed this week by Artistic Trees.  Four trees were removed near the sidewalk and drive way.  What a difference!   The canopy has opened up so more sun will reach the grass and our veggie beds.  All the tree trimmings were shredded for mulch or firewood.  Not a bit of organic material went to the dump.  We used the mulch to cover another section of grass.  Now we only have two sections of grass to mow or water.  Over time I'll plant more shrubs in this section such as fox tail ferns and abelia or nadina.  Joe has another "rock" project and will lay out a path of bricks or paving stones.

                                                                     BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

Rain, Glorious Rain

2.25" Today's Rain
2.72"  January Rain vs. 1.6" monthly average

Save $$$$$

I'm going to save money this year by making root cuttings and then planting these cuttings in the spring.  I'm rooting angel wing begonias, sweet potato vine and wandering jew.