Monthly Archives: February 2016

Sweetgum is one of our most common wild and cultivated trees

Posted on February 28, 2016 by tedmanzer

Sweetgums are everywhere. Walk through any southern neighborhood and you’ll see them. Take a hike into any woodland in the southeastern United States and you’ll have no trouble finding them. One reason sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) is so prevalent in the wild is … Continue reading →

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Winterberry Holly is a striking deciduous shrub

Posted on February 20, 2016 by tedmanzer

Too often people choose not to include shrubs that lose their leaves when landscaping their homes. They want their grounds to be green all year. I agree that landscaping should enhance property during all seasons, but there are some deciduous … Continue reading →

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It seems that frugality is not what it used to be

Posted on February 20, 2016 by tedmanzer

We all think we struggle to make ends meet and it’s harder all the time. Many complain about the economy and the price of everything. Still, I see big lines in front of eating establishments most of the time and … Continue reading →

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Hornbeam is another native tree with winter landscape appeal

Posted on February 18, 2016 by tedmanzer

A couple weeks ago I wrote about river birch and its beauty in winter. It’s just one of several useful native species. Many are underused in my opinion. One of my personal favorites for naturalizing is a birch relative with … Continue reading →

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Several factors determine quality firewood – You might be surprised

Posted on February 14, 2016 by tedmanzer

Some people burn wood to save a few bucks. Others relish the atmosphere of a crackling fire. Still others burn wood to rid their property of unwanted or blown down trees. Quality firewood is a loaded term. Many factors are … Continue reading →

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Many wild and commercial foods require processing – Have patience

Posted on February 8, 2016 by tedmanzer

I’ve always said that success is sweeter when you’ve had to work for it. The same is true with food. Convenience foods just can’t match the culinary quality of vittles produced with tender loving care. This is true with most … Continue reading →

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A productive garden depends on healthy soil

Posted on February 7, 2016 by tedmanzer

Winter is not a typical time to think about gardening. Usually the only thoughts involve ordering seeds for the upcoming season.  However, soil often can benefit from winter care. Thus far this winter has been mild. Many people are already … Continue reading →

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Winter lawns in eastern North Carolina – Green or brown

Posted on February 7, 2016 by tedmanzer

Around here we have two options for lawns. What determines them is the amount of work entailed and when we have the most time for it. Different grass species have different growth requirements. Warm-season species like Bermudagrass, St. Augustine or … Continue reading →

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