As the festive season comes to an end, many families are left with the question of what to do with their live Christmas trees. One environmentally friendly option gaining popularity is repurposing the tree as a bird feeder in the backyard. This creative recycling method not only aids local wildlife but also extends the life of the tree beyond the holiday season.
Propping up a Christmas tree in the garden can offer birds a source of food throughout the winter months. According to gardening expert Don Kinzler, this approach is well-received among gardeners who appreciate the value of recycling natural materials. Mark S., a homeowner seeking to make the most of his tree, inquired about the potential impacts on his flower garden, particularly regarding fallen needles and any resulting weed issues.
Kinzler assured that the fallen needles from evergreen trees will not cause acidity problems in the soil. While fresh needles do have a slight acidity, they break down quickly as they decompose, posing no significant risk to soil health. In fact, many regional soils could benefit from slight acidification, but evergreen needles alone will not effectively achieve this.
However, the issue of birdseed potentially sprouting and becoming a nuisance in the garden is valid. Kinzler explained that birdseed can scatter beneath feeders, leading to localized weed growth, especially from perennial seeds like thistle. To mitigate this, he recommended utilizing non-seed bird foods like suet cakes or peanut butter attached to pinecones. Additionally, some birdseed undergoes treatment to prevent sprouting, which can be a wise choice for garden enthusiasts.
Mark S. expressed gratitude for the advice and shared his experience, stating, “Thanks for the advice. I wanted to show you the final result of our repurposed Christmas tree. Now we’re sitting inside waiting for the birds to find it!” His enthusiasm highlights the positive impact of reusing Christmas trees in this manner.
Exploring Rhubarb Varieties for Garden Enthusiasts
Another gardening inquiry addressed by Kinzler came from Ryan L., who moved from an area where he enjoyed growing Canadian Red rhubarb for nearly two decades. He sought advice on whether to stick with this classic variety or explore new options.
Kinzler noted that while it is challenging to improve on a classic, there are notable differences among rhubarb varieties. These differences include variations in color—rhubarb can be deep red, green, or a combination of both—and stalk diameter. Many gardeners believe that red varieties are sweeter and require less sugar than their green counterparts, but scientific data on this topic is scarce.
A study published in 2021 by the National Library of Medicine evaluated several rhubarb cultivars, including Canadian Red, Valentine, Red Champagne, Poncho, and Victoria. The findings indicated that Valentine, despite being the reddest, had the lowest total sugar content and highest acidity. In contrast, Red Champagne boasted the highest total sugars. The study revealed that total sugars in all rhubarb varieties increased as the growing season progressed, with early-season stalks containing less sugar than those harvested later.
Weather, soil type, and environmental factors also play a significant role in determining sugar and acidity levels in rhubarb. For those looking to cultivate this beloved plant, North Dakota State University recommends cultivars such as Valentine, Ruby, MacDonald, Canadian Red, and Sunrise. While many varieties require some sugar for optimal taste, the appeal of vibrant red stalks continues to attract gardeners.
Houseplant Care: Shine or No Shine?
In another gardening question, Nikki M. sought advice on whether to use leaf shine products for her houseplants, which often accumulate dust. Kinzler explained that most houseplant leaves naturally possess a shiny layer known as the cuticle, made up of waxes that protect the plant and prevent water loss. Simply cleaning the leaves with a soft, moistened cloth can enhance their natural sheen.
While some leaf shine products claim to be safe and not clog leaf pores, many plant owners prefer to maintain the natural appearance of their plants through basic cleaning. Social media occasionally promotes alternatives such as milk or mayonnaise as leaf shine solutions, but concerns about clogging pores have led to skepticism among gardeners.
For those with gardening questions, Kinzler invites readers to reach out via email at [email protected]. Questions with broad appeal may be featured, and he encourages individuals to provide their name, city, and state for tailored advice.
Repurposing Christmas trees and exploring garden options demonstrates the joys and challenges of nurturing nature, whether through attracting birds or cultivating beloved plants.