June 2009 Shopping List For Gardeners

Author: Nancy Erdmann

Issue: June, 2009, Page 100

FOR BIRDS ONLY
Squirrels may not be a problem in Arizona’s lower elevations, but in the high country they can be relentless in their pursuit of food, including that meant for birds. Two new products are now available to deter these pesky critters. Cole’s Flaming Squirrel Seed Sauce and Cole’s Hot Meats sunflower seeds both contain cayenne pepper, a harmless spice that birds don’t mind but squirrels do. Find both products at coleswildbird.com.

BEE HABITATS
Combining an interest in art and nature, Tucson landscape designer Greg Corman has created a collection of outdoor sculptures that double as nesting sites for leafcutter bees—pollinators of native plants. Each piece is drilled with holes sized for the harmless but beneficial insects. The habitat pictured here is made of recycled wood and steel and stands 5 feet high. Various styles are available, or habitats can be custom-made. For more information, call (520) 603-2703; or log on to gardeninginsights.com.

PLANT PAL
Keep plants on balconies or porches shaded from the hot summer sun with IKEA’s Ramsö Umbrella. Offering UV protection, the shade piece has a tilt function and comes with screw fastening, making it easy to attach to railings. Available in assorted colors, the umbrella is 55 inches in diameter and 37 inches high. Find it at ikea.com.