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February
Plan and get started! But not too soon. Read my February calendar for guidance for getting a jump on spring—right on time.

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February Calendar to Get You Ready for Spring and Growing like a Pro!
Spring is…not just around the corner, according to our pal Punxsutawney Phil, we have another full six weeks of winter. Part of me is shaking my fist at winter, but the other part of me says, “More time to get things ready for spring.”🌱🌷💚
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Weekend Tip: Prune Your Trees, Shrubs, & Canes like a Pro
Willamette Valley, Zone 8b Perhaps you can work around the showers🌧, but if you prefer, stay in today with some ☕ and 📚 and get a plan in place for tomorrow. Sunday is looking dry and cold; perfect pruning weather. Skip to the pruning guide. What to Prune December through January February Need some confidence […]
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Front Yard Makeover — Native Plant Edition: How to Plant Perennials so They Can Thrive
In this article you’ll learn pro-tips for getting your long-lived perennial plants off to a good start. AND I’m sharing with you the my native plant list along with the most important details. Project Progress: Rules of Thumb for Planting Perennials For the longer lived, massive plants like trees, these rules are critical for establishing […]
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Front Yard Makeover — Native Plant Edition: How to Choose Perennials that will Thrive in Your Space
I accepted the challenge of using Oregon native plants, (Willamette Valley specific) for several reasons. First I wanted to generate some good PR for our Oregon natives and showcase their beauty, resilience, and their innate ability to thrive in our climate. I also like taking the opportunity to slip in a few ecosystem value points […]
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About Me
Good Morning!
I’m Amy. So nice to meet you. Tea?
I have found fulfillment inviting nature into our yard space, and growing organic fruits and vegetables for my family. I’d like to show you how you can awaken your inner hobbit and transform your outdoor space to an inviting garden to share with family and friends.
It’s a Good Time For…
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Five Tips to Help Hungry Hummingbirds Survive Winter
Yesterday morning I brought out the hummingbird feeder and there was a little female Anna’s Hummingbird hovering near the ant-moat. She flew right up to me and hovered a few feet from my face. “Hungry?” I asked as I offered her the feeder. She went right to work, and even perched while I held it […]
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Weekend Tip: Winterize Your Irrigation System
Now that the rain is here to stay, it’s time to power off and drain your system. Drip systems need to be turned off and drained for winter to prevent damage to the fittings. To do this, open all the valves and slip off the figure 8 end clamps and let the water drain, lifting where necessary […]