News & Tips
BOXWOOD BLIGHT found in BC in early 2012- See NEWS on gold banner for more info
Can I continue to compost in the winter? If so, what can I add to the pile?
Yes, although the process will be somewhat slower, the worms and microorganisms are still active and working in the cold. Left over garden debris like small twigs and leaves make good additions. Be sure to shred or chop large branches so they can break down. If you are using a rodent-proof box you may also bury kitchen vegetable scraps (never meat!) in the heap. Rodent-proofing is especially important in cold weather when rats are attracted to the compost for its warmth and as a source of food. Leaves collected in the fall provide carbon to supplement the nitrogen-rich kitchen material. Make sure your bin has a good lid or is otherwise protected from the heavy winter rains. The water displaces oxygen, compresses the pile and slows the composting process. Just check that the composting material remains slightly moist, and aerate it occasionally by poking with a stick or pole.
Invasive Alien Species— the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands is spearheading an initiative to increase public awareness of the threats posed by Invasive Alien Species. Check out the following information:
Grow me instead booklet (for a snapshot go here)
Non-native & invasive pests
Invasive pest alerts
No rest from new pests
Aliens on the web
Invasive Plant Council of BC
Light Brown Apple Moth — in June 2007 the Canadian Food Inspection Agency identified a new pest, the light brown apple moth, from Australia via California. The 250 host plants identified include produce, cut flowers and greenhouse & nursery stock, with a potentially devastating impact on both importing and exporting business. Samples of host plants are cherries, apples, pears, many vegetables such as broccoli & cauliflower, forage plants, and ornamental & nursery plants. It is not harmful to humans or animals. For more information see the CFIA website.
What's that skunk doing to my grass? Where did those brown patches come from? Check out the City of Burnaby's website for information.
Learn more about Plant a Row - Grow a Row.
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