I picked a beautiful day to plant my bulbs. I get to do a proper sendoff for the cranes.
Peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful!
Music to my ears!!
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Our Purple Martins are back in full force and thriving! These birds have been part of our family for years. After relocating their houses to our back pasture due to overgrown trees, we were concerned about losing our colony. This morning, we counted 12 Purple Martins, and there are likely more!
While we focus on flowers and natives, it's clear that a thriving, sustainable farm (of any kind) relies on a balanced ecosystem. Purple Martins play a crucial role in controlling pests, which helps keep our plants healthy and reduces the need for chemicals. They mostly eat beetles, moths, dragonflies, butterflies, horseflies, leafhoppers and wasps.
Purple Martins are facing significant challenges. The decline in their populations is partly due to the widespread use of pesticides and insecticides, which reduces their insect food sources and can be harmful to the birds themselves. Habitat degradation from these chemicals and the loss of natural nesting sites are also contributing factors. Additionally, competition from invasive species such as European Starlings and House Sparrows further exacerbates the issue. These non-native birds often take over Purple Martins' nests or occupy man-made houses, reducing the availability of suitable nesting sites. Purple Martins are now 100% dependent on man-made houses. Having suitable nesting sites is essential for their survival.
Building a thriving, sustainable farm involves all elements working together. Have you seen Purple Martins in your area? I had to share a video so you could hear their beautiful morning song and chatter.
Happy Saturday to you!
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On this snowy and chilly Sunday...
Sending warmth your way!
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This weather has me thinking and dreaming of what is to come for gardening season! If you are feeling the "gardening itch," right now is the perfect time to start planning and preparing.
When I was selling at events last year, there were a lot of people who were interested in native gardening, but didn't know much about it. Starting a native garden is an incredible opportunity to connect with nature in a deeply impactful way.
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Native plants offer a multitude of benefits to you, our environment, and the creatures that dwell within...
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Preservation: Native plants are adapted to local climate, soil, and environmental conditions, which means they provide essential habitat and food sources for local wildlife, including birds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. By planting native species, you can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity in your area.
Water Conservation: Native plants are typically well-adapted to the local rainfall patterns and soil types, requiring less watering once established. This can help conserve water resources.
Low Maintenance: Since native plants are adapted to the local environment, they often require less maintenance than non-native species. They are naturally resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for pesticides and fertilizers.
Ecosystem Services: Native plants provide a range of ecosystem services, such as soil stabilization, erosion control, and water filtration. Their deep root systems can help prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure, which is beneficial for overall ecosystem health.
Aesthetic Appeal: Native plants can enhance the beauty of your garden while also reflecting the natural landscape of your region. They come in a diverse range of colors, shapes, and sizes, allowing you to create visually stunning landscapes that are also ecologically sustainable.
Climate Resilience: As climate change co