Green Gardening

It's just the right time to get out there and garden! At least it is for us Minnesotans, and here are tips & advice from the great Dean Pettis:

Composting's 4 Neccessities -

1. Brown Waste - leaves, paper bags, paper, coffee grounds, straw, etc.
2. Green Material - alive scraps (banana peels, apple cores, etc.)
3. Air
4. Water

Be careful not to put animal waste (bones or grease) into the compost area or milk products. Turn occasionally to mix waste and voila! Compost ready for your garden. To get more information, visit: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG3296.html

Go Chemically Green in Your Yard -

We noticed one day that all of our neighbors' sprayed yards in our cul-de-sac were barren (barren of weeds and wildlife), but our chemical-free yard was a buzz with birds (and truth be told, dandelions). Moral of the story is to create an environment that THE environment can enjoy too.

Preen, a natural corn-glutten meal product prevents any seed from germanating - so use after plants / grass have taken hold for the season. Flower Pharm and All Seasons Oil Spray are great chemical-free ways to treat insect issues. And a man, a beer and a dark night will help to keep deer away from your 'watered' plants.

Landscaping Tip -

Be careful using rock as a coverage for plants - it may look pretty, but soaks up the suns strong rays, literally cooking the ground underneath, which in turn cooks your plants that are planted in the 'hot bed.' Mulch is more earth-friendly and makes for happier plants.

And, when you're out in the sun, be sure to put on All Natural Sunscreen. You can find it at: http://www.truebluefriend.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=81

Ciao for Now! ~ Nicole

Welcome to True Blue

Greetings to you from True Blue ~

I knew when I was seven - hauling my trusty red wagon down a country gravel road to distant neighbors selling my homemade treats - that I was meant to be in the retail market and connecting with people. After working in marketing for several years, I decided that when I retire, I'll have my own little store and do something I really want to do. That's when I thought, "Why wait until you're retired (like in 50 years)? Carpe Diem!"

So the dream was founded, but after visiting many retail tradeshows throughout the country I almost gave up my dream because STUFF is everywhere. STUFF mass produced in China to entice you to buy - STUFF to fill up your living rooms and closets. Then it hit me - create a place where people can go to find unique gifts, eco-friendly and made in places you would want to vacation.

And what better way to connect with people than through a weekly blog? I even have blog vows (it's a big step):

• To send weekly updates
• To be real
• To be relevant
• To listen &
• To share.

We can all learn from each other so sit back, have a 'cuppa' and enjoy the read!

And while you're surfing, visit http://www.truebluefriend.com/ - a destination spot for eco-friendly gifts and home decor.

Ciao for now!