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We just kicked off a new contest! We want to know your best backyard budget secrets! You could win $500. Just send us you best budget project or tips along with a photo. Details here!

Kirsten Sweet
Birds & Blooms

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• READ ON TO DISCOVER...
• Find us on Facebook
• Bird of the Month
• Best of Glad You Asked
• Project of the Month
• FREE Wallpaper
• Talk to Us!

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Bird of the Month: Purple Finch

The purple finch is a very common feeder bird, and they are a delight to watch.

Learn how to attract purple finches to your yard, and listen to their song.

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Best of Glad You Asked

Garden Getting Rusty?
We have a lot of rain in my area, and with it, some of my yard
“treasures” tend to rust. Will this affect the plants?
–Martha Farnsworth, Springfield, Oregon

Melinda: You don’t have to worry because the rust will not affect your plants.

There’s an old gardening myth that claims rust is actually good for soil because it provides iron to the plants. People even put rusty nails in their soil to achieve this. However, the iron from the rust won’t actually help plants. So it’s not going to do anything to improve your soil, but it doesn’t hurt either.

 I have several pieces of rusty garden art among several plants in my own yard, and there have been no signs of damage. So enjoy your garden art and plants together. 

Preferred Seating
Do hummingbirds like feeders that have a place to perch or not?
–Christopher Lund, Clear Lake, Minnesota

George: Though there are feeders with and without perches, it does not matter to a hummingbird. You’re not likely to attract a great deal more traffic with one feeder over another.

Hummingbirds have great control when hovering. They can stay at the exact position they need to feed while in flight. It’s amazing to watch them in midair.

So, use whichever feeder you’d like. Whether at a feeder or blossom, flying jewels have amazing abilities.

 

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Project of the Month

Get those old bowling balls out of the gutter and gussy 'em up! Find out how to make your own gazing ball.

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FREE Wallpaper

Download great wallpaper for your computer, like this gorgeous flower by Scott Tornio.

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Talk to Us!

We are looking for budget tips for our new section “For Less”. Send us your best budget idea and photos by using Submit Your Story form. If we use it in the magazine, we’ll pay you $25!

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