I guess that it will come as no surprise when I tell you we have had some icy conditions on our walkways and driveways.
Many people worry about using conventional ice melting products because of the potential for damage to lawn and any concrete surfaces, or the fear that it can cause burning on the feet of their pets.
There is pet-friendly ice melt, but it can be hard to find. Many of you will put sand on the ice. I know from experience that sand doesn't always stick. If you get a little bit of melting, the sand becomes ineffective.
Last fall, I was at a trade show, and there was a company from Canada that had a new product called EcoTraction. The product is a mineral that, when sprinkled on the surface, actually grips onto the ice. The effect is like having sandpaper granules on the ice. Even if the ice melts a bit, the product still remains effective. The product doesn't melt the ice. It makes it easier for you to walk and for your vehicle to get traction on the ice.
You only need to use a small amount. One cup of the EcoTraction will cover a 12-foot by 12-foot area. It is safe for pets and will benefit the lawn if any gets on there.
I have been amazed at how well it works. We sell it at the store in either 10- or 44-pound containers.
Many people get bored this time of year. If you want to get your green thumb in gear, now would be a good time to re-pot any of your house plants that have outgrown their current container. At this time of the year, houseplants are still semi-dormant. They will begin a period of new growth during middle to late March.
By re-potting the plants now, the plants will have a chance to get a new root system out into the soil. Once the plants are ready for a new season, the new root system will allow them to get a new start.
Over the last two weeks, we have had many people come in to the store needing help with controlling insects on their houseplants. If you have houseplants, you should take some time and look at the plants for signs of insects.
If you can catch an infestation of insects early on, it is much easier to control them.
Well, that's all for this week. I'll talk to you again next week.
• • •
Tim Lamprey is the owner of Harbor Garden Center on Route 1 in Salisbury. His website is www.Harborgardens.com. Do you have questions for Tim? Send them to ndn@newburyportnews.com, and he will answer them in upcoming columns.
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