This link seems a tad sponsored, but it happens to sum up my suggestions pretty nicely: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/gardening/21015382/foundation-planting-basics
I also vote for some forsythia, rhododendrons, and hosta plants 🌱 best of luck! I hope we get to see some progress pics 😸
https://abcbirds.org/program/cats-indoors/trap-neuter-release/
The gist of this: “The scientific evidence regarding TNR clearly indicates that TNR programs are not an effective tool to reduce feral cat populations. Rather than slowly disappearing, studies have shown that feral cat colonies persist and may actually increase in size.”
From the article they mentioned that has a nuanced outlook: “While there are potential welfare impairments with indoor restrictions, a number of enrichment strategies have been suggested for counteracting these effects to promote the health, affective states, and performance of natural behaviors of indoor cats. Further research is needed to assess the efficacy of these strategies and to determine whether the welfare of cats is impaired by restriction. To develop effective educational strategies aimed at reducing the impact of uncontrolled outdoor access for cats, further research is necessary to improve our understanding of owner practices and attitudes towards outdoor access for cats.“
Pet owners that are responsible should be enacting enrichment strategies to keep them happy and healthy. Further research is needed to conclude strategies are effective, but I’m not sure the conclusion is no pet cats for all because “cruel”. My anecdotal evidence points to the strategies being effective, at least.
Keep pets inside and everyone gets along :)
Thanks for starting this trend! I hope we can keep it up. It’s fun getting to know our garden community here better 😸
I’m trying my best to make my gardens explode with color and opportunities for local bugs and whatnot to enjoy. I’m also giving a go at planting large batches of companion and complimentary plants to keep the baddies at bay and promote best outcomes. First time planting nasturtiums in the mix and I’m very into how gigantic they’ve become!
My other big project is placing various plants along one fence line to create a living fence that should block the view into the backyard and provide a bit of a sound barrier. After visiting the International Flower and Garden festival at EPCOT recently, I fell in love with their use of Heuchera ‘Southern Comfort’ and I can’t wait to add some to my design.