More Garden Clutter Tips

by Marjorie Dorfman | More from this Blogger

01 Feb 2007 08:59 AM

Maintaining a home and its surroundings is a full time job in and of itself. Like no other employment there are no fringe benefits; no vacation pay, salary raises or promotions. There is one bonus, however, and that is the end result of your diligent attention and care. Read on, even if you have never been "employee of the month."

Bagging Leaves Rake grass clippings and leaves onto old bed sheets or a tarp. Then fold the sheet over the leaves and drag it to your compost pile. Both your lawn and your back will thank you for it.

Compost Care Too much wet or green material will often cause an offensive ammonia type of smell. To avoid this, simply add some dry or brown material to the pile, like straw, dried grass or dried leaves. Material in a compost pile will also dissolve more quickly if you add a large bottle of cola to it every week or so and turn it. While this may no longer be "the pause that refreshes," it is said that such action will speed up seed germination and plant growth. Weeds with large wandering roots must be attacked first (women, children, cousins and other relatives later). The large roots may not break down as well as the smaller ones and cause future problems in your garden.

Garden Walls and Siding To remove discoloration and marks from brick walls, wet the wall thoroughly and rub a brick of the same color on the area. (Bricks of a feather stick together.) If the buildup of dust and other residue marks on your siding under the windows are too difficult to remove, apply a little baking soda to a damp cloth.

Planters Whenever using old planters and pots, be sure to clean them out really well before placing a plant inside. Mix a solution of equal parts bleach and warm water. This will kill any mold or bacteria that could harm the plant.

Do YOU have any garden tips to share? Please do.

Related Reading:

"Kid's Clutter: Any Hope At All?"

"Clutter: Attack and Destroy"

"Don't Go In The Basement Clutter"

How Does Your Garden Clutter?

Learn more about Marjorie Dorfman

Marjorie Dorfman is a freelance writer and former teacher originally from Brooklyn, New York.

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