megram - Index

megram - dwsummer - Index

• What safety measures do you need (fencing, deck railings)?
• How can you enjoy these gardens from inside, particularly
during the winter?
• What about permits for hardscaping (decks, pools)?
• Are you being reasonable about budget and timelines?
Bring on the Help
Busy families often wonder where to get practical help to
improve their outdoor space. Here are some places to start.
Read up. Libraries are a great source. The Internet can be
also, with the understanding that some wrong information
exists in cyberspace.
Seeing is believing. When ideas are firm, lay out hoses or
rope to represent main spaces such as gardens and the deck
area. These are easily moved while considering shape and size
options.
Garden nursery staff. Particularly after the long weekend
in May, staff at these retail locations have time, talent and
interest in helping you solve specific questions. Check out a
few to find one who suits you. Remember to check out specialty
nurseries, such as those focused on organic, shade or
sun plants, or native trees.
Buddy Up. Often experienced gardeners are happy to
encourage others. Is there one in your life?
Busy? Select plants that have one or more of these characteristics:
low maintenance, drought resistant, four-season
interest and hardy for zones 5a or 5b.
Cindy Bickerton is an avid gardener and writer, born and raised in
the Ottawa area. She has designed gardens and solved property issues
for years, and now coaches others in their gardening journey.
Resources
• Municipal U-load-it Compost at Trail Road:
http://www.ottawa.ca/city_services/recycling_garbage/co
mpost/compost_sale_en.html
• Residents of Ottawa can register to receive a free tree
from the city:
http://ottawa.ca/residents/healthy_lawns/forestry/tree_pr
ogram/index_en.html
Encouraging children to garden
• Many horticultural societies have programs for children. If
children are in your home, contact a nearby horticultural
society for their version of developing future gardeners:
http://www.gardenontario.org/soc/index.php
• Free pick up of cedar trimmings and free U-load-it
mulch: http://www.cedarleaf.org/english/default.html
Tips Check out the Joneses — not to keep up with them, but to
see what plants work and what don’t in your area.
It might be cheaper, but is it the right bargain for you? I’m talking
about plant sales by horticultural societies or at private
garage sales. Ask what conditions your targeted plant needs
and what its habits are. Avoid invasive ones unless you really
want to own it for years.
Be realistic — installing new gardens and structures is
one thing. Maintaining them is another. Does your lifestyle
offer the time, energy or budget for both installation and
maintenance?
Due West/Due East Magazine • Summer 2008
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