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Grow Big or Grow Home
Spring has arrived! It’s the perfect time to bring some green into your life. Healthy trees, lush shrubs, and a thriving garden can transform your home and provide fresh, delicious produce right from your backyard. Here are some helpful tips to make the most of your outdoor space:
**What You Plant Outside Can Make a Difference Inside**
Think long-term when choosing what to plant. Did you know that strategically placing leafy trees on the sunny side of your house can help reduce energy costs? In summer, their leaves offer shade, keeping your home cooler, while in winter, the bare branches let sunlight in, helping to warm your space.
When selecting plants, especially in Alberta where the weather can be unpredictable, it's wise to choose species that are resilient and adaptable. Consider the mature size of each plant, as proper planning ensures they thrive for years to come. If you're unsure, researching popular tree species for Calgary can give you a great starting point.
**Out with the Old**
Before you start planting new, you may need to remove dead or unsafe trees. This is where an ISA-certified arborist can be invaluable. They’ll assess your trees, identify any risks, and recommend safe solutions—whether that’s pruning, treating disease, or removal.
Removing a large or unhealthy tree can be difficult, but sometimes it's necessary. Diseased or damaged trees can become unstable over time, posing a risk during storms. Their roots can also cause damage to sidewalks, foundations, and even underground systems. And if a tree is blocking your view, sometimes it’s best to make way for the scenery.
These tasks should never be done alone. A professional arborist can handle everything from pruning to stump removal, ensuring your yard remains safe and beautiful.
**Plan This Year. Plant Next Year**
If you've just moved into a new home, take the first year to observe your yard. Note where the sun hits, where shadows fall, and where water tends to pool. Understanding your yard’s conditions will help you choose the right plants and improve their chances of thriving.
If you can’t resist getting started immediately, consider planting flowers or herbs in containers. Hanging baskets or small planters are a low-risk way to add color and life to your space. Herbs, in particular, are a great choice—they’re easy to grow and offer tasty rewards.
**It Doesn't Get Any Fresher Than Growing Your Own Herbs**
Herbs are one of the easiest plants to grow, whether indoors or outdoors. They don’t require much space and can thrive in small areas. If you’re new to gardening, this is the perfect place to start.
Growing your own herbs not only adds flavor to your meals but also gives you a sense of accomplishment. Experts at Blue Flame Kitchen suggest starting with herbs you already use, like rosemary, thyme, parsley, cilantro, oregano, mint, and basil. Chef Darcy has a great video on how to select and care for herbs, making it easy to get started.
Always follow the instructions on seed packets—some herbs need more space than others. Mint and oregano, for example, can spread quickly, so give them their own containers. Learn how to harvest properly to keep your plants healthy and productive.
**Getting the Most Out of Your Edible Garden**
If you already have a garden, the real fun begins when you start harvesting. Gather your favorite vegetables, clean them, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. If you can’t eat them all right away, learn how to store them properly to keep them fresh longer.
Blue Flame Kitchen has a free cookbook called *Grow, Gather, Graze* that covers everything from planting to cooking. It includes step-by-step guides and recipes, like a delicious lemon and herb-marinated chicken dish. Try it out and taste the difference of homegrown ingredients.
**Illuminate Your Hard Work**
Living in Alberta means we spend a lot of time indoors. But your yard deserves to shine both day and night. LED lighting can help you enjoy your garden long after the sun goes down.
Café lights can highlight mature trees and shrubs, while landscape lights can illuminate paths, decks, and flowerbeds. With the right lighting, your outdoor space becomes an extension of your home, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
Whether it’s a large yard or a small patio, your outdoor space can save you money, boost your energy efficiency, and bring joy to your daily life. So why wait? Spring is here—get outside and start growing!