Pre-Spring Fever

A late winter snow on last year’s plants

Don’t clean up yet! Get those native seeds planted for stratification.

If you didn’t get a fresh two inches of snow yesterday like we did, you might be tempted to head outside and start cutting down the grasses and native plants you left standing last fall. Don’t do it! Insects are still overwintering in the stalks and there may be some berries or seeds left for the birds. Wait another couple weeks until you see some green poking through the ground. Besides, the snow on last year’s plants looks kind of pretty. The birds have even started singing adding to the late winter show.

It is is time to plant those native seeds that need a cold period, or stratification, to germinate. I use a variety of methods. One effective method is using plastic gallon jugs that make good planters. I rinse them thoroughly, then cut most of the way around leaving the handle to attach the top to the bottom. I put several holes in the bottom, then fill with good potting soil about half way up the bottom half. I have successfully started two different varieties of seeds with a stick dividing them. Don’t forget to use a permanent marker to label each side and include: common name, Latin name, starting date, source of seed. The only problem I have had is small animals (I suspect “whaskaly whabbits”) eating my young seedlings. I have had excellent germination rates this way. If you place them outside, make sure you tape the jugs shut to discourage the eating of your seeds or seedlings.

Plastic gallon jugs make good seed starters. Yes, I reuse them.

Get Messy

Let’s face it. Nature isn’t particularly neat and tidy. In looking to nature’s example, you don’t have to keep your yard neat and tidy either. In fact, most critters looking for food aren’t looking for bush balls or green carpet/turf grass. And when they find those leaves or flowers, they may take a bite or two. That’s ok.

If you’re planting native plants you realize that gardens are more than prettiness. They’re mealtime right up the food chain from the tiniest insect to biggest raptor. Sit back in your yards and enjoy the circulating critters as well as the native plants with holes in the leaves. Let your plants move where they may. Let your bluejays plant a tree or two. Get messy!

Our definition of gardens should change. Gardens can’t be about beauty alone. Gardens don’t belong to us alone even though we might pay the mortgage on the land where they reside. They belong also to the birds, insects, and animals that call it home. By excessive control and tidiness we take away their homes and food. So, plant the natives and let nature take charge. The rewards are worth it.