DUCK, DUCK, GOOSE!
- Ed Jensen

In the 1960's, Canadian Geese were fast approaching extinction with populations numbering around 1000. Today, they are well in excess of 1 million. Properties everywhere are now full of them and the gifts they leave behind. What can you do? Here is a list of options to consider:

1. A pond can have high-test fishing line strung like a grid in 10'x 10' sections. People think the geese will see it and not have a smooth take-off or landing area. We don't know what the geese think.

2. No-mow area around the lake perimeter. Geese think there is a predator in the tall vegetation, which there might well be. That could include raccoons, turtles, snakes…. Nah, I'll mow around the lake, thanks.

3. Trumpeter swans are a natural predator, unless of course you get a wimpy one, and they will leave the same gifts as the geese. Kind of defeats the purpose, doesn't it?

4. Scarecrows. Not the kind you see in farms, but a stake in the ground with heavyweight plastic or Mylar affixed to it like a flag. The fluttering and noisy flapping is thought to annoy the geese, and the "scarecrows" do so much for the aesthetics of the property.

5. Noisemakers. People have tried fireworks, car horns, sirens, air horns and whistles, but they can't figure out how to get the geese to light the fireworks, or blow the horns and whistles.

6. Fences. Barriers that discourage flight; electric fences and low (1-3') barricades. Again, a welcome addition to the curb appeal of your property.

7. Ultrasound. Don't even ask.

8. Dogs. Border Collies can be leased or purchased to run at the geese and chase them off. Then you only have to worry about what the dogs leave behind.

9. Change your landscape program. Geese prefer lakes or ponds surrounded by lawn, especially lawns that are maintained. Quit fertilizing your lawn and cutting your grass and in no time those geese will look for a more appealing place to be. Of course, so will all your tenants.

10. Flight Control. This is a product made from grape seed extract sprayed on lawns and sidewalks. The geese see a different color that they don't like and do not land. We do not know who asked the geese which colors they prefer to land on.

Then there's the OLM tried and true method, our own Melody from the admin staff, with a little coaching from Tommy!

There is no one cure, unfortunately. Check with your landscaper and/or ask OLM which method may have the best results for your particular property. Just don't forget to watch your step!

Nature is, above all, profligate. Don't believe them when they tell you how
economical and thrifty nature is, whose leaves return to the soil.

Wouldn't it be cheaper to leave them on the tree in the first place?

- Annie Dillard



Autumn is a season followed immediately by looking forward to Spring.

- Anonymous


 

For man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together.

For nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad.

- Edwin Way Teale

HIBERNATING
NOT JUST FOR BEARS!
- Ron Alexander

In the same way that one "winterizes" a house or an automobile, now that the growing season is coming to a close it is time to think about what needs to be done to the lawn and landscape in preparation for the coming winter months. There are several functions that should be performed in the landscape.

Turf
Fescue is a cool season turf, which means it should be looking its best this time of year. Hopefully the overseed process was successful and now there is a healthy stand of turf, which will require feeding with a balanced fertilizer. The goal is to promote the establishment of Fescue turf now to better withstand the stresses of future summer weather. A weed pre-emergent is also very important to help in preventing the winter weeds that can contaminate the turf while it is not growing and is unable to defend itself.

Perennials


Hostas

Hostas and Daylilies may be divided if you wish. Cut the foliage to ground level, dig up the rootball and use a shovel to carefully divide the root fibers into equal sections. Replant the sections as desired, add a little fertilizer, then cover with 2-3 inches of mulch. This is a cost effective way to expand perennial areas while promoting vigorous growth and increased blooms.

Winter Pruning
While it is still a little early to begin winter pruning shrubs, evaluate which shrubs have outgrown their space and therefore must be reduced in size. Determine if any trees have issues with building clearance, light obstruction, etc. Identify groundcover materials that can be cut back for rejuvenation. A game plan can be devised to ensure the entire objective will be met. Do not begin rejuvenation pruning before the first frost. Begin with perennials and groundcovers where the foliage has begun to decline, then deciduous shrubs. Save evergreen shrubs, especially Hollies, for last.

It is a common misconception that not much happens in the landscape during the winter months. The reality is that it is important to use this time to prepare for the grueling summer ahead. LETS GET STARTED!

Need help? Have questions? Whether it concerns home or at work, contact OLM by phone, e-mail or fax and we will be glad to assist!

Contact us:

OLM, Inc.
975 Cobb Place Blvd.
Suite 304
Kennesaw, GA 30144

Call us: (770) 420-0900

E-mail: newsletter@olminc.com
Online: www.olminc.com

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