As waves of brisk weather descend upon us, we might be thinking about buttoning up our home and garden for winter sleep.
One of the most earth-friendly actions we can take this time of year is to protect items already in our care. Attention now means less need for repair or needless early disposal later.
Bringing in outdoor cushions before the rain, covering the propane fireplace so it doesn’t rust out, and collapsing shade umbrellas before the wind obliterates them will all add years to your patio scene. You might even break them out between breaks in the clouds on fair weather days. Easy access, by storing in a nearby shed or tote will make the juggling more easeful.
Shoring up fences, loose doors to gardens, and flimsy compost lids can lessen the havoc wreaked by harsh winds on anything not bolted securely, too.
If you were more optimistic about getting some outside projects done before the deluge, start thinking about covering materials or placing them in more protected storage until time and inspiration return. Friends and family may be up for helping you out, sharing know-how and labour if you ask nicely and offer treats.
Beyond these less glorious tasks of managing things we own, we can spend some time nurturing plants to longer life.
You may be one of the many motivated by our very changed reality to generate more resilience with a garden. You can extend the life of your vegetable patch by adding a cold frame. It’s not too late!
A simple metal or flexible tree branch hoop can be covered in reusable poly with very little set up time. Remember to secure lighter weight versions to avoid having to chase your creation down the street.
If you have old window frames laying around, these can be fashioned into a more sturdy cold frame. Try using wood salvaged from left behinds of other completed projects. Sliding glass double insulated frames, even if cracked, work perfectly and allow access as well as better heat retention. It’s incredible what a microclimate these simple structures can create.
Those who prefer indoor projects can look for locations that are heat suckers. Any uninsulated windows can be buffered with a variety of at-home fabricated insulative sheaths.
A great option is to measure and create a light wooden frame that pops into your existing window ledge. Clear film is stretched across and secured with tape and a hairdryer applied to tighten.
Any large gaps in windows or doors are best filled to prevent major heat loss and higher than needed utilities.
A little forethought will go a long way to having you and yours tucked in more snugly this winter.
Let’s Talk Trash is qathet Regional District’s waste-reduction education program. For more information, email info@LetsTalkTrash.ca or go to LetsTalkTrash.ca.
