The City of Spokane is launching year two of its SpokaneScape rebate program to incentivize drought-tolerant landscaping. A maximum credit of $500 will be applied to residents’ water bills after applying to the rebate program, executing design plans, and passing a final inspection. Applicants converting 300 square feet or more of lawn may apply for …
It’s everywhere—break room tables, church foyers, community centers, even hiding in innocent gift baskets. This time of year, just answering the door can mean a terrifying fate. Some say it’s a fruit, some say vegetable, but in September we ALL say, it’s too much! This year, instead of hiding in the basement with the lights …
Looking to learn more about heirloom plants and how to grow them here in the Inland Northwest? Check out these resources and events. RESOURCES Food Not Lawns INW Facebook Group WSU Extension Classes Spokane County Library District Seed Libraries Spokane Public Library (Hillyard Branch) Seed Library Seed Savers Exchange EVENTS Jams & Jellies (Yum!) Wednesday, …
Resources & Events for Heirloom-loving Gardeners Read More »
There are lots of depressing statistics about declining pollinator populations, which are threatened by loss of habitat and pesticide poisoning, but each of us can implement simple and positive changes to help provide pollinator habitat and food sources in our yards. Creating garden landscapes with less lawn and more of the right types of plants …
How to Fill Your Yard With Birds, Butterflies, Bees and Beauty Read More »
Hugelkultur means “hill culture” in German. It is literally a raised bed filled primarily with wood. The wood attracts fungi and bacteria that slowly break it down. Also, known as Hugelmounds, or simply “Hugels,” these low-tech raised beds capture water, sequester carbon, generate heat, release nutrients, and encourage deep root growth. This is all very …
Environmentally Conscious Gardening with Hugelkultur Beds Read More »
Interest in landscaping with native plants is growing. More and more people understand the importance of helping to improve biodiversity on their property, and the right groups of plants provide food and habitat for a range of vital pollinators and other wildlife. Some people appreciate the unique beauty of the region in which they live …
Making Native Plants Work in Residential Landscapes Read More »
Spring’s anticipation leads to delusional expectations of woodland bounty before the ground has thawed. Foragers and chefs start calling in March inquiring about items for seasonal menus and pantries. If they left the comfort of their kitchen for a walk in the woods, they’d see only a few shoots pushing up through the duff in …
The urban agriculture and urban farming movements have taken off. Some use vacant lots to start community gardens for personal use or food bank donations, while others grow their own food in response to growing concern over industrial agriculture. Figuring out what, when and where to plant can be an intimidating task. Two helpful resources …
