5 Secrets to Getting Gorgeous Flowers
Teri Dunn Chace, author of
The Anxious Gardener's Book of Answers gives her best advice.
By Abbe Wright
Don't Aim for Perfectionist Raking
People spend hours and hours raking and carting away autumn leaves, but this exposes your yard to winter's harshness and deprives it of a bounty of free (free!), beneficial organic matter.
The right way: Raking is a good first step—otherwise leaves tend to mat down and block air and water. Next, chop them up and return the bits to your beds or lawn, sprinkling them a few inches thick. No special mulching tools or equipment is needed, either—just run your lawnmower on a high setting over a leaf pile a few times. You'll be amazed how much the bulk is reduced when you do this.
If you goofed: Chace suggests asking your neighbors for some of their mulch, or hurrying to the garden center to buy some in bags.
Published 05/08/2012
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.
