Merry Christmas!

              Beautiful displays of pansies, kale and cabbage line yards and entryways. Sasanquas are in full bloom while camellias are starting to bloom. Hollies are loaded with red berries, giving that lovely holiday look. The last of the leaves are falling while winter flowering plants are starting to bloom in full force, and Christmas is upon us.

Winter can be a stunning time of flowers and color if your landscape is balanced properly. Now is a great time to look at those dynamics of winter interest in your yard to see what can be done to make your landscape more appealing during the winter months. Remember, in our planting zone, fall and winter are the best times of the year to plant hardwood shrubs and trees.

           

Evaluate your yard for winter interest, and tie up any loose ends on that fall check-list. It’s time to get the last of the work load done so you can sit back and enjoy Christmas. Clean up the last of the leaves, pine straw if it’s not done yet, and put up some Christmas decorations. If you haven’t finished your fall yard chores yet, you are not too late, especially with this warmer weather. Be sure to set your irrigation to once a week, and the start time to during the day. By the end of December, we usually start to get enough rain in combination with cold weather that you can turn your system entirely off.

           

Now you can enjoy the holidays and the simple things in life. If there is anyone you’ve been putting off calling or visiting, now is a great time to do so. Think of those family members and friends that truly mean a lot to you, yet life has somehow put you out of touch. Whether it’s from moving away, working too much, or even a past disagreement, don’t put it off any longer. Time is flying by and will not stop for anyone.

         

Let’s also not forget what Christmas is all about. It’s not about who gets or gives the best gift, or who has the fanciest Christmas party. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus, and spending time with family and friends. It’s about coming together and helping those who might not be as fortunate as you and I. Let’s try not to lose track and miss the true enjoyments of this time of year. From our home to yours- God Bless and Merry Christmas!