Think Snow

Its that time of year when snow is just around the corner. For the crew here at the Creek that means Christmas wreaths and garland making. We recycle all the boughs left behind when Christmas trees are cut and turn them into handmade works of art. Custom made as well as traditional pieces are our specialty. Last year Marvin Coy figured he personally made 1/4 mile of garland and by popular demand he's been pumping out a fresh batch. Its sad to see our sunny weather turn frosty but the change of pace and shifting our talents can be fun and refreshing.

Thanks for an awesome 2009 growing season. Hope you'll join us for the last few weeks and bring in the holidays with cheer. Our main green house is now in operation. Anyone that wants a quick lesson on wreath making and garland stop in we'll put you to work:)

Winter Hours are from 9-8 Mon-Sat and 10-6 on Sunday

What to do with those pesky fall leaves

Today might be a good day to get out and clean up the leaves from your flower beds. This is something I've forgotten to do in the past and I shouldn't have. Neither should you.

Dead leaves can carry disease and pests that will spread to your flowers and shrubs. In fact, leaves left under your trees can do the same thing. So, while we still have warm weather, consider getting out there and getting everything cleaned up.

If you suspect that your leaves have pests or disease, make sure to remove them and burn them (if possible). The important thing is to get them far away from your plants.

If they're clean leaves, go ahead and mulch them. They'll make a great soil amendment.

Don't throw away your Halloween pumpkins.....

If you haven't already disposed of your Halloween pumpkins, consider throwing them in the woods for the local wildlife. Birds, squirrel, chipmunk, deer and others will come to feed on the seeds and meat of your pumpkin. If you're lucky you may even get some volunteer pumpkin plants come spring!

While you're at it, take any of your old produce and put it out for the animals (that is, if you're not composting it already). It gives them a great alternative food source during the cooler months.

Fall Color

Everyday I'm here on our Barker Creek property, something stands out and really catches my eye. Today, even with the lack of sun, the October Glory Maples are lit up like they're shining.
You should check them out. The first of our red maples to turn color sold out in 5 days ,all 30. They were the burgandy wine red maple. The October Glory extends that incredible red fall color another 2-3 weeks which never gets old.

When I design landscapes and the client wants that awesome red foliage I use a sugar maple or birch trees for their yellow fall color to show the stunning contrast.

Reminder to all who love our Dairy Doo compost: now is the time to feather it thru the yard or mix it around your perennials as you cut them back. Just this last week we tilled it thru our veggie garden and spread rye seed. Its never too late or too early. Those're my thoughts for now.

Prepping your Plants for Winter

Are your plants ready for winter? Since they're predicting snow and freezing temps it might be a good idea to think about getting the burlap and stakes out and wrapping those Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and other sensitive plants. It's also a good time to add some extra mulch around the base of all your plants. Remember, a little time spent now will result in happier, healthier plants come spring!

Thank You Friends and clients of Barker Creek. To my employees a huge
round of applause what an excellent Customer Appreciation Day.....
A success all the way around.. Take care ;) Terry

Seminar Schedule for Sunday's Customer Appreciation Day

We've got some great seminars scheduled for this Sunday's Customer Appreciation Day. The schedule is as follows:

11:00 Bulb Bouquets: Proper fall bulb planting and design

11:45 Winterizing Your Garden: what and when to properly burlap and other protective tips

12:30 Winter Food Sources for your Wildlife: Grass River Natural Area will be on hand to present information on this hot topic

1:15 Landscape Design with special focus on Rain Gardens

2:30 Proper Planting Techniques: Watering, root and soil tips, tree dedication in memory of Gray Wagerson

3:15 Hardscapes, Pathways, and Rockwalls

4:30 Hedgescapes: Discover this hot new trend using height, color and texture to create privacy and block unwanted views

A.C. Paws, Habitat for Humanity, and Grass River Natural Area will provide information throughout the day on their organizations. There may even be a puppy or two available for adoption. Plus, we'll have silent auction items with 100% of the auction proceeds distributed to these organizations. Soups and sandwiches will be provided all day at no additional cost.