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Birds & Other Wildlife

Where Native Bees Spend the Winter (& How Gardeners Can Help)

Published on April 11, 2025 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Spring garden plants with a native sweat bee.

Ever wonder where bees disappear to in winter—and how they reappear like magic in spring? This gardener’s guide to native bees reveals where they really nest (hint: not in hives) and how you can help … [Read more...]

Garden Trends That May Do More Harm Than Good

Published on March 4, 2025 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Collage of bee hotel, monarch caterpillar and adult butterfly, and assorted native and non-native flowers.

Well-meaning garden trends aren’t always harmless. See how, despite our best intentions, hand-rearing monarchs, bug hotels, and guerrilla seed sowing can cause bigger issues. To avoid unnecessary … [Read more...]

Hummingbirds Through the Seasons (A Guide For Gardeners)

Published on January 26, 2025Last updated March 30, 2025 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Collage with hummingbird hovering over summer and winter gardens.

From spring migration through summer breeding in our gardens to the return journey south in fall, there are plenty of things gardeners can do to help hummingbirds thrive. If you are eager to know … [Read more...]

DIY Bee House Using Scrap Lumber

Published on September 12, 2024 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Turning scrap lumber into a bee house

Use this tutorial to make a simple bee house for wood-nesting bees in your garden. It uses leftover scraps of untreated 2x4s for an eco-friendly way to help native bees. We also have free nesting … [Read more...]

How to Make Your Birdbath Safe for Birds

Published on May 14, 2024 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Collage of backyard birdbath and bird

The best birdbath is not only attractive in the garden but keeps birds safe. Use these tips to ensure your backyard birdbath is the right style and depth to provide a safe place for wild birds to … [Read more...]

Birdseed Guide: What’s Best For Backyard Birds

Published on March 13, 2024 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Bluejay with peanut in mouth.

Use this guide to select top-quality birdseed for wild birds. By filling feeders with quality seed, you meet their needs and minimize waste. When you're ready to get set up, see the Bird Feeder … [Read more...]

How Light Pollution Affects Life in the Garden

Published on February 17, 2024 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Moth attracted to lights in the garden.

Artificial light at night disrupts natural cycles, harming plants and animals. Use these tips to learn how you can reduce light pollution to help birds, bats, fireflies, and more. Moths are also … [Read more...]

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Melissa J. Will - Empress of DirtWelcome!
I’m Melissa J. Will a.k.a. the Empress of Dirt (Ontario, Canada).
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