Supporting small businesses and, by extension, the greater community, is an obvious benefit of shopping local. But locally owned garden shops also offer a wealth of deep knowledge about gardening in our region. Step into any one of the area’s many independent nurseries and you’ll find a bounty of plants, trees, and shrubs that are specifically zoned for Central Oregon’s temperamental climate. Even better, the experienced people who sell them can tell you when and where to plant your selections. They can also recommend specific soil amendments, fertilizers, and other growing tips to help your garden thrive all season long.
Make Peace with Nature
Lawns and pine needles are not friends. Unlike leaves, needles break down very slowly, so take care to keep your lawn clear of them. Alternatively, consider not growing grass near pine trees, which also has the benefit of conserving water, a resource in short supply in our region.