THE LECTURE that he’s been giving for a number of years is not-so-subtly called “Kill Your Lawn.” Ecological horticulturist Dan Jaffe Wilder knows that starting over and creating an entire native habitat instead of a lawn isn’t for everyone. But Dan just wants to grab our attention and get us to start to make some changes at least in the way we care for the turfgrass we do want in our landscapes. And maybe give up a little square footage of it to some other kind of more diverse planting, too, like the wild strawberries (Fragaria virginiana, inset). Alternative, more eco-focused styles of lawn care, along with some lawn alternatives is what he and I talked about on the podcast. Dan is Director of Applied Ecology at Norcross Wildlife Foundation in Wales, Massachusetts, and its 8,000-acre sanctuary. He’s also co-author with Mark Richardson of the book “Native Plants for New England Gardens.”
(Stream it below, read the illustrated transcript or subscribe free.)
Love that little filmed moment, Margaret – hope there are more of those in the future. Yet another great way that you share your garden and self with those of us who enjoy your blog so much. :-) Thanks!
I’m pleased that winter has arrived. The UK has a lot of rain and is mild and I’m beginning to think I should have wished harder for a proper UK winter.
I hope you have a great start to 2013 – I’m very excited about your new book.
Who knew Chipping sparrows or other small birds stay out feeding during a snow storm? I didn’t! So beautifully illustrates how, though the garden is taking a deep breath, the activity continues to move forward even when not a limb on a deciduous tree or gone-to-pod flower stirs. Beautifully peaceful!
Seeing this serene scene set me to wondering what the term for a group of small birds is. And I came across this informative article.
Thanks for the Informative interlude.
Happy New Year , Margaret, and Happy Gardening in 2013!
We are snow and 18o this morning. Must get out to feed the birds. The waterholes are warmed, electrically, but there is no way feed them except to grin and bear it.
Of course, they are infinitely worth it—and I feel so good when the chore is completed.
Had to take down a huge Ponderosa Pine this fall. Very sad, but it was really assaulted by lightning a few years ago, and was dying. It was about 70′ tall.
HAVE A VERY HAPPY AND COMFORTING NEW YEAR.
We are very happy for a snowy winter too. Love how the white backdrop makes the feeder birds easier to see, and make the cardinals seem extra red.
Happy New Year!
You are always inspired. I should have taken a video of snow the day after Christmas. It was much welcomed and I am glad to see your snow video. I haven’t seen the cardinals who live in a grand pine tree. At least I photographed it in snow.
Beautiful with the added opera! Happy New Year Margaret. Just saw a site on pallet garden for small spaces-intrigued.
Snow with opera. I’m inspired!
Appreciate your always cheerful and upbeat blog,the pictures are outstanding ! Thanks Margaret for your good work!