How-To Library

Winter is almost upon us and the list of outside gardening tasks will be less. However, you can turn a good amount of your organic garbage into better produce and flowers next year with the investment of a little work on your compost heap. Hot composting, cold composting, or both, now is the time to start and/or maintain them.

When the weather outside is frightful what is the horseback rider to do? That fire may be delightful, but we can't just sit inside and sing let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. It's our responsibility to maintain a fitness program for both horse and rider during the winter months. Inclement weather can definitely put a damper in your riding plans, but there are still ways to keep both you and your horse fit during the winter.

One of the saddest things about changing seasons and colder weather approaching is seeing dead plants and bare spots in your garden and yard. If you're looking to spruce up a barren yard, then evergreen shrubs are the perfect solution to fill that space in. Evergreens are not only aesthetically pleasing but can serve many other purposes depending on where you plant them and what you are planning to use them for.

Proper nutrition during the winter months is crucial for all livestock, including beef cattle. It's estimated that winter feed makes up more than half of the annual cost of keeping a beef cow. Maybe you can't tell the difference between 15 and 32 degrees F after spending a few minutes outside, but your cattle can. Slight changes in temperature can have a considerable impact on energy and cow nutritional requirements.

Winters in the south can be extremely dry and freezing temperatures can cause chapped cheeks and dry skin for many of us. The same is true when it comes to our pets that venture outside during these cold months. Due to constant contact with the frozen ground, your pet's paws are at risk for a multitude of issues. Knowing preventative care and what signs to look for can save you a trip to the vet this winter.

When an impending severe weather event is on its way, a little bit of preparation can go a long way in keeping you safe. Before the storm hits, be sure to take the right precautions to ensure the safety and effectiveness of your propane system.

Chickens are much tougher than they appear and they only need a little extra care during the winter months. Chickens who are healthy and happy will continue to lay eggs all year long. Here are a few essential tips to consider when caring for your chickens throughout the winter.

Wind chill affects cattle just like it affects people. Intense cold weather can leave cattle struggling, from trouble putting on weight to maintaining their normal milk production. Plus, cold weather can leave them stressed as they attempt to go about their normal activities. Luckily, there are many ways you can keep your livestock happy and healthy during even the most brutal of winters.

You've decided to take the plunge and you're bringing a new dog home - congratulations! While welcoming a new furry friend into your home is exciting, it also can be a little daunting at first, especially if you're a first-time dog owner. As with any animal, it's important to prepare ahead of time to get an idea of what to expect when welcoming a puppy or adult dog into your home.

During the winter months, when the frost is about to hit and bugs start to die off, birds begin to look for other food sources that will fill them with proteins and fats. Seeds are an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients, but many lack the amount of fat and protein birds need to survive in the winter. That's why many bird enthusiasts switch to suet feed during winter. Suet is also a wonderful option for birds with bills that are not meant for opening seeds. If you want to attract a variety of birds to your yard, then a suet mixture is the way to go. There are plenty of types to select from that you can order or you can make your own at home.

If your dog isn't accustomed to traveling distances in a car, start with short rides and gradually lengthened them. If it turns out your dog doesn’t enjoy riding in the car, don't ruin your vacation. Find a reputable kennel to board him or hire a dog sitter. If leaving the dog behind isn't an option, ask your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications.

For cattle and dairy farmers, who have a lot riding on their operations, ensuring that livestock have the nutrients they need is a crucial factor in maintaining herd health and farm profitability.