A Closer Look at Winter Damage
But first, take a look at this gorgeous rainbow that we had on Friday! The five-day stretch of warm temperatures last week really jump-started the garden. Now that plants are putting out new growth, it is easier to see what kind of damage the winter left. Back in mid-January, we experienced five straight days of below-freezing temperatures. This caused much damage in Portland and areas where frigid winds were a factor. Here, we were fortunate to not get the wind and the cold temperatures were dampened by a blanket of snow. That said, it was a tough time for the garden and there are noticeable casualties but no outright deaths that I have seen. The bottlebrush ( Callistemon 'Woodlander's Red') did not like the cold at all. It was planted six years ago, in the north-facing garden no less, and I've not experienced die-back on it until now. A local expert said to cut it all the way back so that is what I did. If it doesn't make it, I won't be too distraught. It is
It is funny that you posted this project now. I have hated the chain link fencing that we put up when our wooden fence fell apart. It makes our garden much too open to the street. I have been reading about these twig fences. How they are good for wildlife etc and it keeps this type of debris out of the landfills. I have wondered about starting one myself. I didn't know what to use to keep it together. Of course rebar is inexpensive and durable. It will last longer than the twigs. I like the look of these twig fences. I hope you get to feeling well soon. Working outside is good for you if you can stand it but don't over do. So says the Momma in me.
ReplyDeleteLisa, I noticed immediately that birds were all over it. I keep twig piles around because they love them so much, especially the towhees.
DeleteIt's a very cool idea, finding a new purpose for otherwise discarded garden material. Making a natural bird shelter in the process is the cherry on this recycling cake.
ReplyDelete