Welcome Back. Today I want to share a couple more things you can do now, that will help you be more successful in 2012.
Growing up on a large farm in Michigan & then moving to Middle Tennessee about 10 years ago, I have worked with growth patterns in 2 very different climates. Here are some observations I’ve made.
1) In the colder climates, An average yield for the same crop will be 2x more, and in a much shorter growing season.How? The key IS the shorter season, The dormant period.This allows the Microbes in the soil (those hard working little guys) to rest.
2)Fruit & ornamental trees in the south don’t really go completely dormant. A good arborist knows this and plans for winter feeding.
What good does this do for you?
A. Many gardeners over-work their soil. The answer is Biblical! believe it or not, studies have proven that a 1 year rest period every 7 years is the most healthy for your ground. You can separate your garden into 7 sections and rotate 1 spot a year to leave dormant.
B. Don’t over-till the soil. Every time you till, you are disturbing the microbe balance. Now this does not mean don’t till at all.
(look for a complete lesson on proper tilling coming very soon)
C. Winter feeding trees in the south requires drilling down to the roots to provide nutrients. Most Professional Arborists use a gas-powered drill. This job is definitely worth farming out a PRO. If you’re Diehard D.I.Y. like me, I love this EDR by Echo. At Mid-State Mower & Marine they’re $429 
D. prune your trees in the coldest part of the winter season. That way, there will be no chance of a new growth starting at the wrong time.
(look for a complete lesson on pruning coming soon)
I hope this gives you a little more to think about this winter! If you have any questions you can always find me at www.midstatemower.com
_The Go-To Guy
