Fallen Branches

Many Nashvillians have a sudden influx of branches in their yards. While no one likes to see a tree come down, this does not have to be the end of its story. Whether you break it down for firewood, add branches to your garden beds to help build them up, or simply use the remaining trunk as a natural obelisk in your garden — there are always uses for fallen wood in the garden.

I know those of you who have fireplaces were most grateful for them if you lost power. Did you know that you can use wood ash to raise the pH of your garden soil? Should you desire a more purple to pink hue from your big leaf and mountain hydrangeas, add a few handfuls to the drip line and water it in.

If you have plans for a new bed, consider integrating some fallen wood into the borders or foundation. Dead and rotting wood break down with the help of bacteria and fungi, adding nutrition and building up the soil itself. Hügelkultur, a German word meaning hill or mound culture, is a practice integrated into permaculture where fallen and dead wood is used in graduating sizes along with compost to create berms, circles, and mazes. These raised beds are left to rest a few seasons so wood can continue to break down, creating a fertile space for new plantings. If you have an established bed that often gets washed out after heavy rains, consider a border of branches to keep your EarthMix® right where you want it. You could even get creative and weave your own wattle border fence!

With Valentine’s Day approaching, we brought in some blooming beauties to treat yourself with or share with a loved one: adorable Orchids to brighten up the smallest nook, pink and red Kalanchoe, Madagascar Jasmine, and Pink Jasmine ready to pop!

If you want to keep the inspiration going, head over to our Instagram to see Caroline, Austin, and Tyler in the Know Down, catch the Gardening Inside Out crew Saturday mornings at 8am, and download the podcast for your weekly commute. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Happy Gardening,

Sara Bates