Feeding the Birds
Now is a great time to have a window seat to view our flying friends. Cardinals, chickadees, titmice, and finches will brighten your yard as well as your spirits this season. Feed, such as white proso millet, Nyjer seeds, and black-oil sunflower seeds, will attract a wide range of birds. Purchase seeds by type or in blended mixes. Hang feeders at least 5 feet off the ground and 10 feet away from structures and vegetation to discourage predators. Water for drinking and bathing is appreciated, with running water being ideal. Place feeders around nearby shrubs and trees to provide places for refuge from the weather and future nesting sites in the spring.

Houseplants
With shorter days and cooler temperatures, your plants inside are slowing down for the season. So take a break yourself, and go easy on the water and fertilizer. Most houseplants like for the soil to go slightly dry between waterings, especially during the winter months.

Cut Flowers
Try some nontraditional blooms in your displays. Gerbera daisies, orchids, and callas are long lasting. Keep things simple by choosing one flower type and color, and then use multiple stems for an easy and elegant show.

Plants as Presents
Give the gift that keeps on growing. Plants are welcome additions for new homeowners as well as seasoned gardeners. There are lots from which to choose. Evergreens, such as magnolias, hollies, and hemlocks, can be used individually as specimens or in groups as screens. The bright flowers on 'Yuletide' camellia bloom just in time for the holidays. Think of all of these plants as investments; they add value to the landscape as they mature.

Ivy Topiaries Dress up your holidays with these classic plants. Available trained onto many forms, such as standards, spirals, rings, and cones, ivy topiaries work well alone or to anchor other seasonal displays. Care is simple. They are happy in cool rooms with bright, indirect light. Water plants regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Do not let plants sit in saucers of water. Rinse or mist the leaves every other week to help deter spider mites.

Winter Solstice
December 22 marks the end of fall and the beginning of winter. As the leaves drop and you begin your seasonal cleanup, the shape of your yard becomes more apparent. It's a good time to take a look around. Imagine it as a room. Where are the walls, ceiling, and floor? Do you need to add a hedge, shade tree, or path? Plan now for future additions or changes.