Exploring the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula, we can find an array of treasures in all shapes and sizes. From awe-inspiring forests to picturesque beaches and harbors, this region is a paradise for nature lovers. What we don’t often take notice of are the smaller treasures that keep our habitat healthy and thriving — native solitary mason […]
outdoors
Posted inGardeners Corner
Create a Garden Oasis in Any Size Yard, Deck or Balcony
No matter where you garden, there never seems to be enough time and space to accomplish all your gardening goals. Make the most of every minute and square foot of space in your landscape, deck, patio or balcony. Start with a vision of what you want to create. Perhaps it’s a secret hideaway in a […]
Posted inGarden
Campanula Bellflower
Campanulas are my new favorite plant. There are about 500 varieties — encompassed trailers, creeping or tufted miniatures and erect kinds 1 to 6 feet. Most are perennials; some are biennials or annuals. Flowers are usually bell-shaped, though some are star-shaped, cupped or round and flat. They bloom from spring to fall, depending on the […]
Posted inGarden
Landscaping for Wildlife
March and April are perfect months for selecting and planting woody shrubs and trees. This year, consider adding plants to feed and shelter wildlife, especially birds and pollinators. Choose from both evergreen and deciduous plants. Evergreen plants provide shelter and nesting areas throughout the year. Deciduous plants satisfy that requirement but also visually add wonderful […]
Posted inAt Home
Stay Safe as You Get Back Outside to Work on Your Lawn and Backyard
Spring is coming, and as we get out our lawn mowers and other outdoor power equipment from storage to work in our yards, businesses and other green spaces, it’s important to put safe practices in place. “Think safety first,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), an international trade […]
Posted inGarden
Vociferous and Vicious — The Tiny, Yet Mighty Marsh Wren
Some people like to talk. Gregarious folks never run out of things to say, nor do they seem to tire of speaking. Others are quieter and only talk when it’s necessary. It is the same in the world of birds. Some birds call almost incessantly, including gulls, crows and grackles. Others rarely utter a peep. […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
Put Your Citizen Scientist Hat on for the Great Backyard Bird Count Feb. 17-20
The 26th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) takes place Friday, Feb. 17, through Monday, Feb. 20 — and everyone is invited to participate. Bird and nature lovers everywhere unite in the effort to tally as many of the world’s bird species as possible over these four days. Combined with other bird counts, GBBC results help create a […]
Posted inGarden
How and Why to Landscape Septic Systems
There are over 60,000 onsite sewage systems (OSS) in Kitsap County. How should you landscape and maintain them? What Is an OSS? An OSS has a septic tank where effluent (i.e., wastewater from kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms) enters the tank, solids settle to the bottom and oils and grease rise to the top. In […]
Posted inGarden
Hellebores — Winter Garden Jewels
Brr, it’s cold outside. Take heart — the days are becoming longer and the winter flower phenomenon is hellebore season, brought to you by the genus Helleborus. Commonly called hellebores, Oriental hellebores, Lenten rose or Christmas rose, whatever you call them, they put on their best finery — fancy flowers and evergreen foliage during […]