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When the days lengthen, temperatures rise and the air has that unmistakable balmy feel of spring, you may be eager to open your pond. Taking the proper steps to restart your pond after a long, cold winter is essential to keep your equipment in good working order and preserve a healthy water balance. With a good opening, your pond can thrive right from the first day of spring. Easy Steps to Reopen Your Pond in Spring Taking it slow and steady is key to opening your pond properly in spring. To get your pond lush and alive after a dormant...

Spring is a favorite season for many gardeners, and performing the proper tasks from late winter through late spring can help you enjoy a productive, bountiful growing season. In late winter… When a few warm days arrive late in winter, it's time to start thinking about spring gardening. As snow begins melting, the following tasks should be on every gardener's to-do list… Planning garden beds, including any new beds or plantings. This includes adjusting beds for space as needed and deciding which plants will work well together. Cleaning out any remaining plant debris from the previous year, including removing winter...

Even in the middle of winter, gardeners can plan for a bountiful harvest, and because February is the shortest winter month, spring is that much closer! To use February to prepare for a productive spring… Plan Your Garden: Take time to decide which plants you'd like to grow and how you will design your garden. Consider light levels, soil condition and your expertise and enthusiasm for a realistic plan. Order Seeds and Plants: If you haven't already ordered seeds and plants, February is the time to do so in order to have your plants ready for planting at the appropriate...

Deer may be elegant, attractive wildlife, but they can be some of the worst backyard and garden pests as they damage trees, eat gardens and flowerbeds, trample foliage and leave feces throughout the yard. While fences can be effective at keeping deer away, harsh barriers can also be eyesores. Fortunately, there are several natural ways to deter deer that are inexpensive, easy and effective. Strong Odors Deer have sensitive noses and tend to avoid areas with strong odors that might conceal predators or other threats. Crushed garlic cloves can be sprinkled on mulch, or spread human hair clippings to give deer...

It may seem like there is no gardening to do during the holiday season, but in reality there is still plenty to keep enthusiastic gardeners busy even when the weather outside is frightful. Gardening in December means… Pruning for Natural Decorations Pruning berry-laden twigs, lush pine boughs and plump seed stalks can yield beautiful accessories for natural centerpieces, flower arrangements, mantle swags and other decorations for the holiday season. Choose the best trimmings for decorating, or add a unique touch by accessorizing them with holiday bows or metallic paint. Continuing to Compost Your compost pile needs care year-round, and turning...