February 2024 Newsletter 🦉
FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER
Mild Winter Impacts | Benefits of Nature | Spring Native Plant Sales
IMPACTS OF A MILD WINTER
Minnesota is on pace for the mildest winter on record. What sort of impact does that have on our forests and wildlife?
Check out this article from Great River Greening about some of the potential impacts of this year's warm temperatures and lack of snow.
And some tips from Blue Thumb on how to handle the weather whiplash in your own yard:
Native plants are resilient to extremes. Resist the urge to jump into watering—if you’re worried about your younger shrubs or perennials, you can protect them from temperature swings with mulch or a loose layer of leaves.
Plants cue their spring growth both by temperature and length of daylight. Early spring growth likely won’t hurt your plants, but an unexpected cold snap could lead to less flowering later in the season.
Hold off on any major planting activity until soil temperatures rise to 50 degrees. (A good indicator for this is when you can see dandelion start to flower.) Invasive species removal, pruning, and native seed sowing can be great winter gardening activities if you’re feeling restless!
NEED ANOTHER REASON TO GO HIKING?
Unlock the healing power of nature right in your own backyard! In this article, Dr. Aimee Daramus reminds us that "you don't have to wait until you can take a vacation in the woods to reap the benefits." Spending just 15 minutes outside has been linked to improvements in sleep, blood pressure, and physical ability, as well as reduced risks of chronic disease, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Being Outside Is Good For Your Body and Mind — Here's Why
SPRING NATIVE PLANT SALES
Spring is coming! Blue Thumb put together a list of upcoming native plant sales in the Twin Cities Metro and throughout Minnesota. Sales will be continually added as announced. Start planning your garden now!
Spring 2024 Native Plant Sales
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Your contribution plays a crucial role in our efforts to preserve and protect Lebanon Hills Regional Park for future generations. Every dollar you donate will support projects like Bike to Hike and our Turf to Pollinator Garden project, as well as other work to preserve and enhance our favorite park.