Before you get out the pruning shears, read Dick’s Garden Blog and learn how, when and why with our winter pruning tips. The major questions on pruning are: how to prune when to prune, why prune and when to stop pruning. The how and when vary depending on species but December to January is a good time for pruning trees and most shrubs. So prepare yourself.

The “why” is for the shape of the plant, the seven-foot rule, the health of plant and protection of surrounding structures. Shape and health of the plant can go hand in hand but try not to have trees that look like broccoli. The seven-foot rule (in case you’re wondering) is the minimum height above the ground for the lower branches of a tree. Pruning plants to avoid damage to your house is on the top of the list. This brings me to the Crape Myrtle. Once again I (along with Neal, Howard and countless others) urge everyone, do not top the Crape Myrtles. The only case when a Crape Myrtle should be topped is when it can cause damage to the house.

The “when to stop” and “how too” are the big questions. The stopping is as much of an art form as the how to. The only answer I have is “it’s always easier to take more off than it is to stick it back on”. Go slow and think beyond the cuts. So, if you are a do-it-yourselfer, educate yourself, get after it and be careful. For me, I gave up climbing trees with sharp tools and running chainsaws years ago. I now hire a professional. Yes, it can be expensive but It’s so much cheaper than an ambulance ride. Before hiring a tree trimming company, please check them out first. If you pick the best, that’s what you’ll get. As a general rule, I don’t plug companies, but the guys at Advance Tree Care have always done a sensational job at my house. And don’t forget Arborilogical Services, they are another company with phenomenal service.

It’s that time of the year again. The fall migration is in full swing with ducks and geese landing anywhere they please. This includes your backyard especially if you have a pool. Ducks and geese are federally protected so disturbing them can get dicey and illegal.

If they take up residence in your backyard you will have your work cut out for you. If you have a pool try filling it with large inflatable snakes, beach balls, noodles, and other such floaties. Apparently, the ducks think it is too crowded and will go to your neighbors. I have also heard of folks using bird netting and owl decoys as a deterrent. The good news is that they are just getting a short rest on their southern migration trip. But they can also be shopping for a nesting area before the mating season. The other news (good or bad) is once they find a nesting spot they tend to come back to it every year. One course of action during this migration is to just enjoy them and watch Mother Nature at her finest. But be advised, Mother Nature is a cold-blooded woman and you will see the natural selection process first hand.

Ducks have been feeding themselves and their duckling for centuries. Even though they don’t need our help, some like to help Momma Nature out and feed the ducks. Almost anything is better than nothing but pick the feed carefully. Ducks will eat almost anything like the term “duck on a June bug” suggests. However, in the wild, they have a bigger feeding area than your backyard. I am not a big fan of cross-species feeding. For this reason, dog and cat food are out. Folks will also feed corn, bread, and chicken food. Feeding such products will not allow them to reach their full potential. It is however preferable to starving to death (but they won’t). Obviously feeding a complete diet, engineered for waterfowl is preferred. Mazuri’s Waterfowl feed is designed for ducks, geese, and swans. Wells Brothers stock Mazrui Waterfowl Starter, Mazrui Waterfowl Maintenance, and Duck Pond Medley. These blends are the best of the best you can feed our feathered aquatic friends.

Are you a duck hunter or enjoy cooking duck? Click here for some great recipes.

November is a month rich in history. Memorable events in November History include the founding of first female medical school and the meaning of Thanksgiving Day. Read A Little November History for interesting facts for all you history and trivia buffs!

November 1, 1848, the first term of The Boston Female Medical School started with just twelve students.

November 4, 1862, Richard Gatling patented his first rapid-fire gun which used revolving barrels to load, fire, and extract the cartridges.

November 11th the USA celebrates Veterans Day (formerly called Armistice Day).

November 13, 1942, the cruiser USS Juneau was sunk by the Japanese at Guadalcanal. The five Sullivan Brothers from Waterloo, Iowa, died as a result of the attack. Their deaths prompted the U.S. Navy to adopt the Sole Survivor Policy.

November 17, 1970, Elton John recorded one of his best, 11 17 70.

November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address.

November 26, 1789, President George Washington proclaimed the first American holiday to be a day of prayer and public thanksgiving for the successful establishment of the new American republic. Thanksgiving Day.

November 30, 1782, a provisional peace treaty was signed by Great Britain and the United States ending America’s War of Independence. The final treaty was signed in Paris on September 3, 1783.