Tag: outdoors

Bewick’s wren

Small Birds with Big Voices

As summer slips into fall, bird activity in West Sound gardens and yards begins to change. Both insect-eating birds and those with a taste for ripening fruit move throughout this region. The wild and domestic fruit crops tempt birds like the robins, cedar … read more

BLOG POST

Pink Pride

5 Daffodils to Try in Your Garden

If you love daffodils, you’re likely familiar with the popular ones like the iconic Dutch Master or Yellow River, the easily recognizable Barrett Browning or the beautiful Goblet. Since the Year of the Daffodil will be winding down soon, we wanted to share … read more

BLOG POST

Western Scrub-Jay

September Is the Month for Migrants

Two bird-related events make September one of the most exciting and interesting months for bird watching. Bird population numbers are the highest they will be for an entire year due to all of the young birds raised this year. The other reason for … read more

The beach at Goat Bay
Travel Bug

Accessing the Abel Tasman, New Zealand

New Zealand — a wonderland of jaw-dropping scenery from Milford Sound in the far south to the most northern Bay Islands. Many of its best and indescribably beautiful vistas with some of the most dramatic panoramas can only be found off the beaten … read more

A wilting, newly planted viburnum. New plants can dry out quickly.
Water and Wilting Plants

To Water or Not to Water?

Wilting leaves. Sooner or later, everyone who gardens — from just a single house plant to a grand vegetable patch — will encounter a droopy plant. The remedy is a universally known response: Water the plant. Pour some water on it or set … read more

The Gardens of Sam and Debi Johnson

A Forest for the Grandkids

The Gardens of Sam and Debi Johnson

“We kind of built this whole place around the grandkids,” said Sam Johnson, speaking about the 30 acres of mostly forested land near Kingston that he and his wife, Debi, purchased in 2001. The Johnsons had been living in Edmonds and were both … read more

BLOG POST

Daffodil Lingerie (Photo courtesy Longfield Gardens)

Plant Easy-Care Daffodils Now for Added Spring Beauty

Daffodils have a cheery presence in the spring garden and are a surefire way to chase away the winter blues. These fall-planted bulbs are also reliable perennials that require no maintenance and are not bothered by deer or other pests. The National Garden … read more

Rosemary Collins

Unsung Hero — Rosemary Collins

Founder/President of Pony Up Rescue, Olalla, Washington

Rosemary Collins founded Pony Up Rescue for Equines in Olalla in 2006 because she saw a need for a rescue organization. In early 2007, Pony Up received 501(c)3 nonprofit status, and its mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome horses in need due … read more

Butler's Farm

Gig Harbor Apple Farm the Go-To Place for Hundreds of Unique Varieties

The small, hand-lettered sign on Peacock Hill Avenue near Gig Harbor says, simply, “Butler’s Farm. Apples. Self serve.” It’s the first hint that at the end of the dirt driveway, there’s a 7.5-acre orchard where more than 1,200 apple trees — with upward … read more

Pony Up Rescue for Equines
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