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Spring

How to Force Branches to Bloom Indoors Before Spring

Published on April 3, 2025 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Spring flowering shrub branch

This guide shows how to take budding branches from flowering trees and shrubs and coax them into blooming indoorsโ€”weeks ahead of schedule. You'll learn when to cut, how to care for the branches, and … [Read more...]

How to Cut & Display Pussy Willow Branches Indoors

Published on April 2, 2025 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Pussy willow tree catkins on branches

Unlike other spring branches we force to bloom indoors, pussy willows should be kept dry after cutting to preserve their soft, fuzzy catkins. To force flowering trees and shrubs to bloom indoors in … [Read more...]

April Garden Checklist: Tasks & DIY Projects

Published on April 1, 2025 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Apple tree in bloom in April garden

As spring arrives in the April cold-climate garden, winter may have a few surprises left . Indoor seed starting is underway and, as the soil warms, outdoor sowing begins. Eager for the growing season … [Read more...]

Choosing the Right Fertilizer: Organic, Synthetic, or None at All?

Published on March 20, 2025 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Gloved hand holding granulated plant fertilizer.

Wondering which fertilizer to use in your garden? This guide explains the differences between organic and synthetic fertilizers and how to choose the best option for your garden's long-term … [Read more...]

What is “Days to Maturity” on Seed Packets?

Published on March 14, 2025 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Vintage seed packets

Learn what "days to maturity" means in gardening, how it's calculated, and why it mattersโ€”especially for cold-climate gardeners planning their growing season. If you are new to gardening, learning … [Read more...]

March Garden Checklist: Tasks & DIY Projects

Published on March 1, 2025 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Purple and white crocus flowers in bloom in March garden

For cold-climate gardeners, March signals that weโ€™re almost thereโ€”spring is just around the corner! Nowโ€™s the time to gear up for indoor and outdoor seed sowing and start some garden art … [Read more...]

How to Make Your Birdbath Safe for Birds

Published on May 14, 2024 โ™› 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...]

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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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