Dealing with the Wicked Old Weeds of the West
Faster than a controversial Twitter chain, more powerful than a Political Action Committee—Look! Down on the ground. It's a lawn, it's a garden, it's weeding time again! Yep. Weeds. Those persistent party crashers of everyone's yard are beginning to pop up once again. Before you run for your shovel or your sprays, let's make a plan for weeding that will have you enjoying your yard this year, instead of cursing the amount of work you have to do in it. What is a Weed? It's always good to start with a definition. A botany college professor once said that a[...]
Featuring Water in Your Yard
Are you looking for something a little different in your back yard this year? Do you need a relaxing sound to listen to at the end of your busy day? Have you been thinking about having fish as alternative pets to allergy-inducing dogs or cats? Perhaps now is the time for you to consider the beauty and benefits of installing a water feature in your yard. Recently, we caught up with water feature specialist, Shane Hemphill to talk about what it takes to put in a beautiful fountain, waterfall or other feature. Shane has over 20 years experience in the[...]
It’s Baby Time—Let’s Keep Our Hands Off
Shh! Someone may be sleeping nearby. It's baby time in Colorado and our state is enjoying a burst of new births. But just as with humans, wild baby animals need to be treated with care. Jennifer Churchill, public information officer for Colorado's Parks and Wildlife, spent some time with your friends at DeckTec to update us on best nursery practices in the wild. "This time of year, the end of March through April, is baby season," said Jenn. "We can see all sorts of wonderful wildlife right now, especially baby birds and small mammals, out and about. The best thing[...]
Beer’s to You This St. Patrick’s Day
Time to get your green on. Denver will be celebrating St. Patrick's Day from today on, with parades, music, corned beef, and—beer. The Denver St. Patrick's Day parade starts at 20th and Wewatta streets this Saturday, March 15, at 9:30 am. Its festivities are free, but be aware that downtown parking spots are not. If you're more of a traditionalist, the actual holiday is Monday, March 17. And if you're looking for a fun way to celebrate, you may want to go in search of green beer. This "traditional" drink of leprechauns is a great way to celebrate the coming[...]
Seeding Your Vision
As the last vestiges of winter cling about our yards, tiny rays of hope for a bright spring emerge. Crocuses have begun to dot the landscape, and buds are starting to show when you step close to trees and bushes. It feels as though gardeners are beginning to line up at the starting gate in a race for plantings to begin. Why not put your enthusiasm on a fast track by indulging in a trip to your local garden center and splurging on a few packets of seeds? Although we are still early in the planting season, believe it[...]
