Welcome! I'm Melissa J. Will a.k.a. the Empress of Dirt (Ontario, Canada). I've got creative and frugal ideas for your home and garden. New to this site? Start here.
The fall hummingbird migration south from parts of Canada and the United States begins as temperatures start to cool. When it starts depends on their summer location and how far they have to travel. F ... [Read More...]
Yes, you can grow vegetables indoors. I have grown a variety of vegetables and herbs including lettuces, arugula, spinach, kale, carrots, radishes, beet greens, tomatoes and more. Best of all, I grow ... [Read More...]
If you live in a cold climate, there are plenty of annual and perennial flower seeds you can sow in the fall garden. Later, as winter turns to spring, the seeds germinate, giving a jump start on sprin ... [Read More...]
This homemade Halloween firefly costume combines common household supplies with a few simple store-bought items. It’s adaptable for kids or adults—and, yes, it glows. For more ideas also see … [Read more...]
Winter is the perfect time to explore creative projects you’ve always wanted to try—sewing, painting, upcycling, and more, all on a thrifty budget. If you enjoy creative hacks, you'll also like … [Read more...]
October is a busy time in the garden. There is plenty to harvest, sow, prepare, protect, and craft. Have a look at ideas for things to get done before the winter weather moves in. If you would like … [Read more...]
Do houseplants purify air? Should you water on a schedule? Find out which common care tips miss the mark—and what your plants really need instead. If you need more tips, this is my system for … [Read more...]
A brief look at the creative life and garden of Tasha Tudor, her books and crafts, and how she inspired generations of gardeners, artists, and makers. If you want your own Tudor-inspired cottage … [Read more...]
Fresh, practical gift ideas for gardeners—tools, books, and supplies that are useful, thrifty, and mostly under $100. Easy to order online. For more ideas, also see the Empress of Dirt Shop where … [Read more...]
Ants may look like pests, but they play a valuable role in garden soil health and pest control. Here's why you can stop worrying and let them be. If ants are taking over your hummingbird feeders in … [Read more...]
