Chimes & Birds

Look who stoped by!

2012-01-22T11:00:00.007-05:00

This is a male Pine Grosbeak. We've had the pleasure of him hanging out at our seed bird feeding station for a week or so now. The bright red color is just awesome with our snowy back ground. The male has black and white wings which just set off the red color and make it burst!

Immature grosbeaks have similar color as females. As they grow they change from a pinkish to the bright red of a male adult.

This bird is the largest of Washington finches, about the size of an American Robin.

The female Pine Grosbeak is not as colorful. They have no red coloring. These little ladies have bodies of grey with heads and necks of orange or rust color. Their wings and tails are dark brown with white bars.

Nests are made of twigs, moss, grass, lichens and fur. The nest itself is a bulky cup shape. The female typically lays about 4 pale blue-green blotched eggs each year. Eggs take 13-15 days to incubate. Dad helps with the chores by bringing mom and babies' food. Pine Grosbeaks breed in sub-arctic and conifer forest. Generally they breed in wet areas or other open areas near a tree line. Their non-breeding habitat is determined by available food.

This birdies like to dine on buds, fruits, berries & seeds. In the summer about 15% of their diet is made up of insects. Most forging is in trees but they will eat seeds off the ground.

We hope you have the pleasure to view these wonderful birds up close. Visit our on-line store a grab a new seed feeder for your yard to help welcome the Pine Grosbeak! http://www.ChimesAndBirds.net

Until next time, Enjoy them birds!

Chimes and Birds

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2012-01-01T09:34:00.005-05:00

Chimes and Birds would like to wish everyone a safe & Happy New Year! May your troubles leave and dreams come true in 2012!

The team of Chimes and Birds

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T09:20:00.005-05:00

Chime and Birds would like to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas!

Feeders need regular cleaning

2011-12-18T10:16:00.008-05:00

Even though it's winter and cold out, seed bird feeders still need cleaning maintenance on a regular basis. With wind blowing snow into the tray area seed will freeze and thaw as the sun and temperatures rise and fall. This will cause seed to get moldy and rancid. A bad food source will make birds sick or even kill them.

Simple cleaning will prevent seed from going bad in feeders. Time between cleanings has many variables, weather is the main one. If you see moldy seed in the feeder, you must disinfect the feeder. Use a solution of 10 parts water to 1 part bleach. Soak the feeder for a couple of minutes if possible. Otherwise just keep pouring the solution through the feeder. A small soft brush can be used to remove any mold stuck inside. It is VERY important to rise the feeder thoroughly! Let the feeder air dry so fresh seed will not absorb the moisture. You can also use an air hose to speed up the drying time. Our goal is to never see moldy seed in a feeder.

Cleaning your feeders will keep them looking good for years to come. Different bird feeders require different cleaning and maintenance. Check requirements on the package of all new feeders.

Fill bird feeders with fresh seed. To help keep feed safe for birds store in a location that rodents can get at. Rodents can carry diseases to birds that don't effect them. Never put rancid seed back into a feeder.

If we want to welcome and enjoy birds in our yard we need to make it a safe environment for them. Don't over crowd them, more bird feeders is better then less. Clean fresh food and water is a must. If we can"t live up to these simple rules, then we shouldn't invite birds to our yard.

Visit Chimes and Birds for many styles of seed feeders for year round use.

Enjoy them birds!

Save that water!

2011-11-26T14:44:00.006-05:00

For those of you who have the hobby of a freshwater fish tank as well as gardening you might not know that the used water is like liquid gold for gardens & plants. Regular maintenance is required for our fish tanks, every month. This involves siphoning 25% of the water out of the tank. Save that priceless water for you garden & plants. It is loaded with micro nutrients that plants love and you should not just send it down the drain!

In the water that most think is yucky or nasty, from decaying food and other things. Our plants welcome with open leafs. They are more then willing to accept the free Phosphorus, Nitrogen, Potassium, Iron and more. All these help our plants thrive and survive. We always pour the water in our flowerbeds, around shrubs and in the veggie garden. Even in the winter I continue to dump the water in the garden & flowerbeds.

And if the sad day should come that one of your little finned friends should pass, dig them into the garden. This is no new concept; dead fish have been added to soil for years.

Water is something we waste too much of. I try very hard to save on the water used for our gardens. We have a rain barrel system, a hand dug shallow pond to dip water from. I even save the water from hot bath for canning, once cool I water.

Chimes and Birds hopes this little tip is helpful for you.

Enjoy your yard & birds!

For sale... slightly used Osprey nest

2011-11-12T17:38:00.005-05:00

Great View, quiet neighborhood & close to food!
Just kidding. While heading to Wisconsin we passed this vacant Osprey nest. Sorry the picture is not too clear, weather and all.

Anyway An Osprey is a large eagle-like bird. With a size of 24" and a wingspan of 5 1/2 foot!!!They live on fish. This raptor is the only one that plunges into water feet first to catch din-din. They carry the fish head first for better aerodynamics. They tend to get harassed by Bald Eagles for the catch.

Nest are made on man-made towers, as seen here. Dead trees are also used for nest building.

They do a complete migration to southern states, Mexico, Central & South America. The only place they do not got to is Antarctica.

Although Chimes and Birds has nothing to feed Osprey, we do have a great selection of other bird feeders!

Enjoy those birds!

Need some help with this one!

2011-10-22T18:07:00.006-04:00

We have these wild flowers growing in a ditch that runs along side our barn. The ditch almost always has water running in it. They bloom late in the summer. The hummingbirds love them! The orange flowers are very delicately sitting on a tiny stem. Do you know what they are called? We would just like to know.

Visit Chimes and Birds website to pick out a hummingbird feeder for your yard today so you can enjoy these little wonders in your own yard.

Thanks for stopping by.

What seed food will attract what bird?

2011-09-25T16:36:00.007-04:00

We live in northern Michigan and would like to share some of the types of birdseed we use to attract certain birds to our yard. We like to change our seed types with the changing seasons to provide the best nutrition for the birds in our area. I’m sure these birds are viewed in many other states as well.

Northern Cardinal

These beautiful birds are a delight and always welcome at our home. We’ve had the best results with a platform type feeder. We chuck if full with a variety of sunflower seeds. Black oil, striped and of course sunflower parts all work well. In addition we add peanut parts & dried fruit to the tray. You can purchase a seed mixture from a local feed store that includes most of the items listed as well as white millet blended in.

American Goldfinch

The finches come by far in the widest variety of colors, not just gold. Their favorite food hands down is nyjer seed. A thistle or tube feeder works for this seed product. These little guys also enjoy fine sunflower chips, red & white finch millet. Don’t get me wrong a nice feeder stuffed with black oiled or stripe will please them as well. Many feed stores have products the include a great mixture that finch’s will love no matter what time of the year it is

Black-capped Chickadee

These birds don’t turn down too many free meals. Most are present year round for a snack or meal. They enjoy eating out of a tube feeder, platform or even a human hand! The variety of seed they eat is crazy! Just about any type of seed you place out will be ate. Of course they like a variety of sunflower seeds, but don’t stop there! A feeder containing different types of millet, grain products, peanut parts & dried fruit is sure to be a hit and bring them in. A standard birdseed mix will fill most of this order. It can be purchased just about anywhere, even a grocery store.

Blue Jay

A lot of people could care less if these birds are around the yard or not. I personally like them and think they’re gorgeous. They also do best with a platform feeder. But they do manage just fine at our tube feeders. The buffet for them includes, sunflower seed of any type. Don’t forget peanut parts, grain products, millet, safflower & dried fruit. Again if you purchase a seed mixture that includes most of these items listed you should have great results attracting the Blue Jay to your yard.

Evening Grosbeak

As with most birds I’ve listed, these birds have a wide-open diet preference. With a platform feeder you should be able to welcome them into your yard year round. Just about any general seed mix will attract them. Sunflower seed is a big hit as usual, but so are many other ingredients. They will flock to the feeder for millet, peanuts, grain & safflower. Again you can purchase a general seed mixture and it will meet their needs.

As a side note

If you’re just starting out feeding our feathered friends try a “general wild bird food mixture”. This will start the ball rolling to attract birds, and then you can spread out from there. Do the research for your area and what your birds will require at different times of the year.

Our area has black bears so we need to remove feeders at times to avoid destruction to them. You need to be aware of dangerous wildlife in your area as well. Bird feeders may not be the only target in the yard!

We offer many types of seed & suet feeders for our birds using a variety of feeders. Be sure to use the right feed for the season. Always keep feeders clean so birds stay healthy. Water should always be available for bird bathing & drinking.

Please visit our website Chimes and Birds to help you get started with one of our quality bird feeders or a birdhouse for your yard.

Good luck and enjoy the birds in your yard!

Colorful Dragonfly

2011-09-04T10:36:00.011-04:00

Eating the bee!

Great colors!

This awesome dragonfly was snacking on a bee. I was getting some birdseed for my bird feeders when I heard the clicking and crunching, I had to check it out. When I seen its wonderful color I ran in the house to grab my old outdated camera and hope for a good shot. The close up in real life was too cool. Its color & eyes were too much!

Dragonfly's do eat a lot of bugs, which is a good thing. They come in many colors and sizes and to get a glimpse close up is so enjoyable.

Just wanted to share!
Chimes and Birds

P.S. If you click on the picture it will enlarge!

End of Red Raspberry season

2011-08-28T18:41:00.012-04:00

Now that our freezer is stuffed. Jelly has been made along with pies. Many berries given to friends and family, it's time to clean up the raspberry patch. We had an awesome Red Raspberry season this year and hope to enjoy just as many berries next year. In order to help this happen we need to make sure that we help it happen with some simple steps.

1) Clip out all fruit producing stalks from this year. These will be the dark brown stalks. The leafs might even have a tint of yellow.

2) Tie all the new shoots together in small bunches. These are the green stalks. This will help in the winter to avoid snow damage due to the weight of snow.

3) We always take the hedge trimmer and trim the bunched new stalks to about 4 foot tall. This will also help to avoid breakage in the winter and force the root system to become hearty for the next season.

Your Red Raspberry bushes should be ready for winter and next years wonderful fruit producing season. As a final note, we keep them tied up in bunches all summer. This makes it much easier to pick the berries without stalks flopping this way and that. The bees and hummingbirds will still get at the buds in the spring.

Visit Chimes and Birdsfor more tips and a great selection of bird feeders, wind chimes & much more.

New food source

2011-08-06T10:53:00.005-04:00

As I looked out my window it looked like snow in August! At closer examination I found a male and female American Goldfinch also called a Yellow Canary by us common folk. These 2 were enjoying picking the seed out of this Thistle Weed. Kind of like us picking fresh berries rather than store bought.

I really tried to sneak up and get a picture of both digging around for their feast but was unable to get close enough. I did manage to get the female. The male was very active going in and out. While the female was sure to get her full reward of fresh food.

These Goldfinch enjoy seeds and insects. They nest in the late summer and use the silky down from wild thistle for the nest. They tend to fly in small flocks and twitter during flight.

Now the funny story behind this weed in our yard is as follows. I was trying to be helpful and push mow. As I did this I lopped down "a mini forest" of thistle weed. When my man got home he was not pleased with my attempt to help. He was saving these weeds to take photo's of. There was a bit of bickering back and forth. Me saying "there just weeds!" and "I don't want picker weeds all over the yard as they seed" Him saying "they're art" All said and done the mower puked out on me so some "art weeds" were saved. Good thing because now our birds have more yummier food and nesting materials to choose from.

We feed our finches thistle / nyjer seed but fresh is always better. Chimes and Birds has some very durable mess seed feeders that are great for finch and other bird feeding.

Until next time, enjoy those birds!

FREE Perennials!

2011-07-15T12:55:00.005-04:00

That's right FREE! Now is the time to take up invites to all your friends and families BBQ's, pool parties and so forth. Heck you might just want to drop in to say hi. Once there, take a relaxing stroll around the yard and check out their flowerbeds. Choose the flowers you like and ask if you could have a sample. Remember all perennials need to be thinned sooner or later. Why should someone just thin and pitch? I have managed to start and add new flowerbeds at 3 homes now for next to nothing. The flowers in the photo were all free. I just keep adding to it.

Some of the varieties we have been given include Hostas, Lambs Ear, Mixed Columbine, Mixed Foxglove, Bee Balm, Cora Bells, Carnations just to name a few.

I'm also very lucky to have a husband that works for a utility company and is not shy to ask strangers for perennials. Now most gals like flowers in a pretty vase with a bow. I get flowers all the time, they just tend to have a large clump of dirt attached to them and arrive in a box, bag, bucket or what ever else might be handy. Sure we might get some unwanted weeds this way but oh well. Remember ladies... your vase flowers will die. With proper care mine will return year after year so I can enjoy them more then once. I've also received a ton of Tulip, Lily, Daffodil bulbs to name a few with this process.

Now if you're not exactly sure just what the names of the plants that you have collected are, don't worry. Here comes the fun part! Grab yourself your favorite beverage (no restrictions here). Dig out all those seed & nursery catalogs you keep getting and can't stand to throw out. Find a comfy spot in the shade. And enjoy looking through the catalogs to see what treasures you will start to enjoy in your yard.

As a final touch I like to place a birdbath, stepping stones or wind chime in some of my flowerbeds. This items and more can be found at our on-line store Chimes and Birds.

Enjoy your birds and yard!

Glad I could help!

2011-07-02T09:06:00.007-04:00

The other day while standing at my work station I heard a thump. I looked out only to see a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker lying belly up. My first thought was "oh crap, it's dead". I ran out the door to check it out. She was still moving. I wasn't sure if this was the last few moments of her life or not. Her flying partner or mate was flying frantically around in circles.

Not sure what to do I gently scooped her up in my hands. She was blinking at me. I stroked her head very carefully while I checked her over. I kept speaking to her to calm her the best I could. I'm not a vet but I was looking for obvious things that could be wrong. I wasn't really sure what I would do if I found something.

I made the decision that she might have just knocked herself silly. I placed her in the shade out of harms way. At this point she was holding herself in an upright position, I felt this was also a good sign.

I continue to monitor her. I had to wait on a couple of customers' inside. When I was finally able to return to my little patient I slowly opened the door. As I stepped out... She looked at me and took off into flight. She made a quick reverse in her planned travels to make a quick circle around me. I'd like to think she circled me to say thanks.

The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is part of the Woodpecker family. They are medium size with a red head. Males have red chin and females white.

They're diet consist of insects, tree sap & eating suet at suet feeders. These are the birds that drills holes in horizontal patterns around small to medium size trees. sapsuckers don't suck sap out of trees rather lap it out with their long tongs. Many other birds will drink from these holes as well. The dripping sap will also attract insects for there snacking pleasure.

The best I can figure is this little lady was after an insect and miss judged how close to the building she was. This is not a picture of the actual bird I helped, just an example.

If you enjoy watching the woodpecker family visit Chimes and Birds and pick out a suet feeder or platform feeder to place in your yard.
Enjoy those birds and help when you can!

Safe 4th of July!

2011-06-30T06:58:00.004-04:00

This cute wood birdhouse really shows your American Spirit when placed in a flowerbed. Available at Chimes and Birds! This is a great time to enjoy friends, family & travel. Please have a safe holiday.

New Baby in Town!

2011-06-25T10:10:00.006-04:00

This newborn fawn was found a couple of hours after it was born. My husband went for a little ride out back on his 4 wheeler and noticed a deer squatting down. He thought something might be wrong with her and then she bolted! He walked over to where she was to investigate and found her newborn baby! I would seem mom was just nursing it.

Thank goodness he always has a camera handy! He came to the house to show me the pictures and that wasn't enough, I needed to see the baby.

When I seen it up close I just wanted to pick it up and hold it. Of course I didn't. It was so tiny & cute. We left the baby so mom could come back and take care of it. What a great experience!

Just goes to show you at Chimes and Birds, it's not all about birds!
Enjoy nature!

These baby's will need seed!

2011-06-18T14:28:00.004-04:00

There are 3 tiny birds in this nest. Sorry it's hard to see but they're in there.
These baby birds will soon be ready to leave their nest and head out into the world. Do you have a seed feeder to welcome them? If not go to Chimes and Birds and grab one or more so your yard will be ready to feed them when they get the boot from Mom Bird!
They're going to need lots of feed to start their life off right!
Enjoy them birds!

Dad's love our feeders!

2011-06-04T10:22:00.004-04:00

How about a great seed bird feeder for that hard to buy for dad? Chimes and Birds has the best selection of seed feeders, birdhouses & hummingbird feeders. Dad will love this Father's Day Gift that will last for years!
Visit the website now to view all our quality products! http://www.ChimesAndBirds.net
Enjoy them birds!

Hit the clearance aisles!

2011-05-09T07:05:00.005-04:00

Now that Easter has past & Mother's Day has gone don't forget to skip into your local garden centers for clearance bulbs and plants. This is a very in-expensive way to continue adding perennials to your flowerbeds. Some flowers or plants might not look like much at this time, but next year and for years to come you'll be rewarded with their beauty!

I picked up these small bulb containers with a variety of bulbs to plant. When I added all the containers up retail would have been $42! I got eight pots for $16! Sure I could of waited just a bit long and got them much cheaper but I still saved a ton!

Once you get them home bring the ones that haven't bloomed yet inside to add burst of color. When they're done flowering just plant them outside! Make sure the outside conditions allow for planting in your area.

I like my flowerbeds to have blooms through out the season, and this helps add color when other bloomers are still coming around.

After planting I add my birdbaths, water fountains or wind chimes to the flowerbeds to complete the project. Great garden accessories can be found at Chimes and Birds!

Enjoy your yard!

Windchime for Mom?

2011-05-05T06:45:00.004-04:00

Still time to get mom a wonderful long lasting & relaxing wind chime to go with those flowers for Mother's Day!
Stop by http://www.ChimesAndBirds.net and check out all the awesome garden accessories!
Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-20T07:10:00.009-04:00

Even though we got "dinged" with some snow again we have our yard ready to welcome spring and all the birds back. The birdbaths have been cleaned and put back out. all our wood & decorative birdhouses have been dug out & hung. Seed feeders have been refreshed with more seed. All is good to go... except the snow from the sounds of it. Oh well it's spring time in Michigan!
Chimes and Birds would like to take the time to all our friends & customers' and with them a safe and Happy Easter! Please visit: http://www.ChimesAndBirds.net to get your yard ready as well!
Enjoy those birds!

Things are happening!

2011-04-10T09:36:00.003-04:00

We have had some very nice weather the past week and most of our snow is gone. Yes there is still snow in the wooded areas, but for the most part it's gone. This week the forecast calls for a lot of rain which should take care of the balance of snow.

Anyway as I stroll around the yard and check for signs of returning growth I get excited. In the fall I tend to leave dead foliage on plants, this helps me find plants in the spring. Now is the time to gently lift and remove the old so the new can bust through. You don't want to just pull the dead plant material off because you will most likely remove new growth. I take my hands and "fluff" up the old leaves. Then I snip them back with some hand held trimmers. I don't cut right to the ground because the delicate plants still need some protection.

Right now our Bleeding Hearts, Daffodils, Tulips, Day lilies, Columbine and much more are getting ready for another wonderful display of beauty for us to enjoy. I've prepared my planters to put annuals in when the time comes.

With all this action in our flowerbeds we can't over look the fact that the hummingbirds are right behind them. I have placed my shepherd hooks in proper location to soon hang my feeders from. Have you seen the new hummingbird feeders at Chimes and Birds? They're awesome! You should grab some so you too will be ready!

Until next time... enjoy spring!

Hang in there Upper Michigan!

2011-03-25T14:30:00.003-04:00

Well it’s a sure sign of SPRING in the Copper Country! The state bird has been spotted! Yes the Robins are back! I haven’t seen them in my yard but others north of me have! Yes there is life north of us in Upper Michigan. Actually where the Robins have been spotted there is still a good amount of snow on the ground! But where I speak of they seem to like to keep the snow around until June or so! Just kidding Calumet!

With this sighting I will place some goodies out for them to munch on until the ground thaws and the crawlers will be moving about. I’ll also continue to brush the doggy outside so others my use her “fur do” to build nests! I have started to place birdhouses out as well to welcome all the travelers back.

This is also a good time to “tidy-up” after winters 150″ plus of snowfall! Pick-up broken twigs, clean ditches from trash and so on. There was even enough snow melt to put out my solar lights in the garden & walkways.

I like winter but ready for spring yard projects! Please visit our website Chimes and Birds to pick out a new bird feeder or birdhouse to welcome back birds to your yard.

Time to trim apple trees

2011-03-20T11:25:00.004-04:00

Just a reminder to trim your apple trees now while still dormant. Some of you may have missed the window of trimming opportunity because your weather has warmed up. Where we live there is still snow on the ground and cooler temperatures. We also were coming close to the time line as the sap is running in the Maple trees & people are tapping them for syrup.
Also a great time to plan on putting your new seed feeders out!
Looking forward to the spring blooms!

Garden Accessories | For Sale | Chassell MI | recycler.com

2011-03-20T11:13:00.000-04:00

Garden Accessories | For Sale | Chassell MI | recycler.com

What GREAT products!

2011-03-06T19:19:00.008-05:00

We are so proud of or new line of "Green Products" These bird feeders & birdhouses are made in the USA and made of 90% recycled material! They'll last forever! We've also beefed up or line of hummingbird feeders as well. Check out our new line of Cedar bird feeders & birdhouses as well. This is just too exciting for us! Stop by Chimes and Birds on-line store and see what all the hub-bub is about!
Now you'll really enjoy those birds!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-04T12:50:00.004-05:00

Spring is soon to be here! Why not get ready for the returning feathered visitors with a Chimes and Birds "LOVE SHACK BIRDHOUSE", or one of our other prime wood birdhouses? No mater which one you chose... love will be in the air!
Visit the on-line store today!
www.ChimesAndBirds.net

Happy New Year!

2011-01-09T15:33:00.005-05:00

We hope everyone is having a good new year. All of us at Chimes & Birds are very excited to start with some new spring planning. We will be once again adding more products to our already wonderful large selection. Many new BIRD FEEDERS and BIRDHOUSES will be available for you to add to your landscape. Our store is always change to provide our customers with the best in unique garden accessories!
Until next time... start planning!

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-21T07:07:00.007-05:00

Chimes & Birds wishes everyone a very safe and MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Now is the time to start planning your spring projects and adding some new flair to your home or yard. Visit our website and pick out yourself or friend a beautiful garden accessory! We have the best selection of WIND CHIMES, BIRD FEEDER, BIRDHOUSES & more all at your finger tips!
Your satisfaction is always guaranteed!
visit; http://www.ChimesAndBirds.net today!

Great Feeding Idea!

2010-12-13T12:57:00.005-05:00

This is an awesome idea for BIRD FEEDERS! My friend has taken a dead Cedar tree and used it to place an assortment of Bird Feeders on it. He put some metal poles through it to hang feeders from. The branches were left for the birds to perch on and rest between feedings. A large metal stove pipe was placed around the base to prevent squirrels form climbing up the tree trunk. One might even want to add a Decorative Birdhouse or two!
Just one more way to enjoy the birds in your yard!
Please visit; www.ChimesAndBirds.net and get yourself a bird feeder.

Problems and Answers!

2010-10-18T07:02:00.005-04:00

My friend sent me a picture of this cute little guy that keeps unloading her bird feeders at at amazing speed!

They put a dryer vent pipe around the pole to stop the little dude. These are available at most hardware stores. They are pre-crimped to snap together forever. The problem is... they only put a 3" diameter pipe on the pole and this determined guy still got to the seed! Oh he took a couple of slide down before he figured out where to grab so he could continue his mission, and he did.

Back to the hardware store, pipe was proving to be cheaper then all the seed. With the 3" pipe removed and a 4' pipe in its place... Chippy must not stay grounded and wait for the seeds the birds drop!

Enjoy your yard & critters!

Time to close things up!

2010-09-23T08:10:00.006-04:00

Well summer is well on its way out. Now is the time to get our flowerbeds ready for winter & new spring arrivals. I personally use this time to plant new bulbs even shrubs in various locations around the house and yard.

Remember dormant plants should be planted shortly after they arrive. Spring bulbs should be planted when the ground temperature drops into the low 50's. This will prevent new growth and allow the roots to establish.
Bulbs are great for naturalizing. Most look nice planted in random clump through out the yard. When blooms are spent you can just mow the yard.
Having a location prepared ahead of time help will make this a smooth transaction for all.

Where we live, we need to prepare our shrubs & raspberry plants for winter. This will include wrapping or caging depending on the plant. Our raspberries will be tied together in clumps and the top growth trimmed off. This will help prevent the snow load from causing damage to the stalks. Some of our shrubs will need chicken wire cages to stop critters from snacking during the winter months. Most will need wooden tee-pees to prevent damage from the snow weight.

Don't forget to empty birdbaths so they won't crack. Also drain most of the water out of any rain barrels to avoid freeze damage.

Each home has its own requirements for winter preparations. These are just a few ideas we use.
Have fun and enjoy your yard year round!
Chimes and Birds
http://www.ChimesAndBirds.net

Check out our rain barrel set-up!

2010-07-27T07:42:00.010-04:00

This was a simple set-up my husband came up with to collect rain from our pole barn roof. It is raised on leveled blocks so I can get a 5 gallon pail under the spigot to water flower and vegetable beds around the yard. I simply dip my smaller watering can into the pail to water or just fill other buckets placed around the yard and water at the plants location. Being raised gravity fills my pails very quickly!

Fairly cheap items required to assemble this baby. FREE BARRELS - no chemicals that cause harm to people or land! Some plastic fittings, valve for water flow, a scrap piece of plastic conduit to allow the water to overflow from the barrel with the down spout into the other barrel!

We do put a screen over the top to keep the mosquitoes from having a free for all laying eggs! This also keeps the leafs and what not out of the water. (Screen was removed for clearer photos of the overflow tube).

All our garden plants established & new plants are thriving! I'm happy because I have FREE water for all and save on my well!

Enjoy your yard! Visit www.ChimesAndBirds.net to add some decorative garden accessories to your yard for even more enjoyment!

Still time to add some PATRIOT SPARKLE!

2010-06-25T16:57:00.004-04:00

Hello and HAPPY 4th! There is still plenty of time to add some good old American Patriot Sparkle to your home or yard!
How about a new American Eagle wind chime or one of our may All American Decorative Bird Houses?
All you need to do is click on this link to view all our fantastic home & garden accessories! ChimesAndBirds.net
Have a safe and happy 4th of July from the staff at Chimes & Birds!

Happy Fathers' Day!

2010-06-07T04:50:00.003-04:00

Chimes and Birds has great gift ideas for fathers' day! How about a rain gauge, thermometer, bird feeder or bird house? All would make a great gift! Visit www.ChimesAndBirds.net for more gift giving ideas.

Hummingbirds are BACK!

2010-05-27T09:39:00.005-04:00

This year we got an early spring which in turn brought the hummingbirds in for snacking! They are so neat to watch when they just hover at a feeder! Don't forget to visit Chimes and Birds to get your new hummingbird or seed bird feeders today!
ENJOY THOSE BIRDS!

Changes on the way!

2010-05-12T05:01:00.003-04:00

Chimes and Birds will soon be launching its new site design! We're very excited about this new layout & design! It should be a great step in a new direction for us! Will keep you posted and let you know of all the great deals to come as well!

Well I think it's here!

2010-04-16T07:43:00.005-04:00

Spring!
Yes this year where we live we got blessed with an early SPRING! All the snow is gone and we really need some rain. Not that we're complaining but it's not the norm by no means! My Daffodil's are a good month early this year and the Tulips are close behind. Everything else is also bursting to pop their buds. Including the shrubs that the rabbits found so tasty this past winter.

I've switched my Bird Feeders and food for the spring / summer season. We even put out Hummingbird Feeders in-case the little ones are ahead of schedule. Oh ya... the Birdbaths are back upright and filled!

The addition of more Wind Chimes have all been hung as well. Is your yard ready for the next season? Visit www.ChimesAndBirds.net to get some new additions for your yard!
Enjoy the SPRING!

Where should I put that birdhouse?

2010-03-10T07:44:00.005-05:00

I know most of us are still dealing with the snow, but spring is on its way. This is the time of year I like to plan for spring arrivals. I’m speaking about the feathered friends that will soon return. I like to add a few new feeders and birdhouses each year. I want to make my yard a welcome and safe place for the new baby’s as well as mom and dad bird.

Providing protection and comfort for birds year round will only enhance or bird watching experience. Choosing the proper location to place birdhouse is very important. Birds need to feel safe and comfortable with their surroundings. By doing this you will promote nesting in your yard. We have the opportunity to help them along simply by placement of housing & food.

Depending on what type of birds you want to attract for nesting will determine the type of house & location. If you already have “frequent visitors” at your feeders maybe this is a good starting point to provide shelter as well. If you would like to extend a welcome to other species, this is also a good way to bring more birds in.

Make sure you position your birdhouse so it is relatively safe from predators, big & small. You want to allow for them to be able to perch but not get chomped by the neighbor’s kitty cat or other critter. A small shrub or near by branch can accomplish this. Be sure that food and water are near by and also safe for the reaching.

A birdhouse should also be place to avoid predominant wind in your yard. This helps to keep them & their home dry during rain.

If you purchase a manufactured a birdhouse many come with placement guidelines. Follow them and you should get the results your looking for. If buy one from a craft show, ask the crafter where to place it. Fact is they should have done the research on the specific species that the house was built for. On the other hand if you choose to build your own, you need to do the research for proper size, opening and placement.

Placing a large selection of birdhouse will give your guest a choice that fits their style and needs. Be sure no to over crowd or clutter your yard with birdhouses. About 4 small ones or one large one per acre is a good guide. Don’t place houses right next to each other, even birds like privacy.

Here is a short sample of what some birds like for there living quarters:

· Nesting boxes need to be hung several feet off the ground. The exact distance will depend on the type of bird and at what height they feel safe.
· Martins prefer to be near houses to breed. They still like their privacy though. About 20’ from surrounding trees and buildings should work well.
· Robins like trees with sturdy branches. Although I have seen some pretty flimsy location picked out by these guys.
· Swallows don’t enter woods so a house in an open space would catch their eye.
· Nuthatches and woodpeckers like the woods. A birdhouse on a fence post could work for this.

Not every birdhouse will attract a guest or new family. Don’t give up! Keep trying to bring them into your yard. Give the new birdhouse at least a year and then if need be… try a new location. Spring is generally the best time to place new birdhouses in your yard, but any time is fine. Remember to clean out the houses after the nesting time has passed.

Chimes and Birds would like you to welcome & enjoy these new yard guests. Please visit our online store (www.ChimesAndBirds.net) for more tips and yard & garden accessories. Enjoy them BIRDS!

Wow More products to Choose From!

2010-02-09T09:49:00.005-05:00

Chimes and Birds is proud to announce that we now carry Garden Stakes & Spinners. Just another great addition to our already awesome product line! Visit the on-line store today at www.ChimesAndBirds.net and get a "jump start" on your landscaping decor!

Lets try composting - part 2

2010-01-21T04:44:00.004-05:00

Now that we covered some of the basics about what composting is, lets get to the nitty-gritty of it.
By now most of you know there are many forms of composting systems to use. All work in the same manor to produce that rich dark nutritious substance that is awesome for your gardens & houseplants.

This comes down to 2 questions to ask your self:

1) How much space do you have to compost? Some of us have large yard or acres of space. Others might have less. Not a problem! There is a composting system to fit every need & yard!

2) To make or purchase a compost system? For some they might not have the tools, time or space to make they’re own system.

We will look at the options available and help with this decision. As with all things, there are advantages & disadvantage to each type of system. However all systems work the same to get the end results.

Homemade systems

There are many options with this system. The bin size you want to achieve would be about 3’ x 3’ box. Don’t forget, you need to turn the pile so don’t build the sides too high. You can enclose the bin with recycled materials such as old free pallets from a local store. Purchase materials such as cinder blocks, steel post or fencing. NEVER use treated lumber to compose. The chemicals could leach into you compost soil. Purchased or recycled material is only required it you want to enclose the compost area.

If you have the available space, you can build a type of one bin system with just a pile & a trap. Over time the materials will compost, but you will need to get to the bottom of the pile to use the finished product. This could mean removing non-decomposed materials to get to it usable compost. This type of composting will take a bit longer but Red-worms can also be added to the pile to help speed up the process. They also help to “turn” the pile as they work their magic!

A 2-bin system works in the same fashion with the same materials to build. The difference is one bin contains a pile being built. And the other is for a pile that is already built and more advanced in decomposing. When you start a system like this, you will need to use a garden fork to “turn the pile” into to other bin. One bin will always be for newly added composing materials, and one for usable compost. This system will require more yard space.

If a pile is not for you, try a trench that is dug 8” deep in the garden. Put kitchen scrapes in the trench and leave for a couple of months to decompose. Then you can simply plant over the scrapes or turn them into another part of the garden. We have also just pitched kitchen scrapes in the garden through out the summer and winter and let nature do its thing. It will get turned under in fall or come spring.

If you have a large pile of autumn leaves, you should just rota-till them into the garden in the fall. I mow over our leaves many times to chop them into small piece for quicker decomposing in the garden.

Purchased systems

There are many excellent systems out there for the buying. Although they’re more costly the composting process will be quicker because of the container being enclosed. You might also need to chop items for composing smaller to fit into the container opening.

These will rotate & tumble the materials fairly easy so the labor might be easier on the back. Be sure not to over pack the container because ingredients won’t tumble. Commercially available bin systems are expensive but keep your compost neat and tidy. A variety of sizes and styles are available to choose from.

The next thing you need to decide it just how much matter do you have to compost? This will guide you to make the right choice for the right system. Maybe you could share a system with a neighbor.

Once again Chimes and Birds wants you to get out and enjoy your yard! Lets make it better one compost pile at a time!
Visit our online store at ChimesAndBirds.net for more yard tips or products help to enhance the beauty of your landscape or home!

Welcome 2010!

2010-01-03T10:34:00.005-05:00

We would like to thank all our customers for their support in 2009 and wish them & their families nothing but the best for 2010! Chimes and Birds continues to expand our product line for you. Our newest addition is BIRDBATHS & WATER FOUNTAINS! What a great addition for any yard or deck! Visit the store and save 10%! Check out our new product line! Have a great 2010!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-25T19:32:00.003-05:00

Now that the Christmas Holiday has passed, Chimes and Birds would like to wish you the very best for the new year! We thank you for being one of our BEST CUSTOMERS in 2009 and hope to serve you again in 2010 and many more years to come. Currently we are having a sale to "Chime" in the New Year! You can save 10% on your total order for a limited time. Visit www.ChimesAndBirds.com to pick out a new metal wind chime or other garden accessories. Lets start the new year on a calming wind driven musical note!
Have a great 2010!

Lets try composting - part 1

2009-12-21T14:54:00.003-05:00

I hope to cover some basic ideas behind composting yard waste, kitchen scrapes and so forth for you to use in your gardens and flowerbeds and help return some nutrients back into the soil.

Composting is the decomposition of plant remains and other once living materials. This happens naturally everyday in the world in forest. When the leaves fall from trees and pile up on the forest floor they will start to decay. As they decay the live tree root system will absorb the nutrients to complete the recycling process.
If this natural recycling process works in the woods, why not use it at home for our plants & shrubs?

What is needed to compost?
The basics of good composting are to provide the proper environmental conditions for microbial life. This is the fungi, bacteria etc. That will do the work of decomposing. Insects and worms also play a roll to help the process. These are the basics that will transform your yard waste & kitchen scrapes into an earthy dark crumbly substance that is excellent to add to houseplants, flowerbeds & gardens.

To achieve this you also need to provide air, water & food:
Air is needed to help speed up the composing & keep the pile from smelling like putrefying garbage. Keep the pile “fluffy” to allow proper aeration.

Water is needed to make microbes live. You don’t want the pile too wet or dry. Rule of thumb would be like the moisture of a wrung-out sponge. To wet will mat the pile down & and could cause odor. And to dry will also slow the decaying process. Grass clippings & kitchen waste have higher moister content, autumn leaves and straw have less. You want a good mixture of moist & dry waste to keep a good balance. You may need to add water if more dry waste is used in your pile.

Yes even a scrap pile needs food to do its job. This is simple enough “browns & greens”.
“Browns” are dead plant materials such as straw, dry weeds, autumn leaves and wood chips. These items are a good energy source for the microbes. You will need to moisten these before used in the pile.
“Greens” are fresh plant materials like kitchen peelings, grass clippings, coffee grounds & green weeds. All these items provide nitrogen and are a critical element and can be thought of as protein for the millions of multiplying microbes.

A good mix of greens & browns is needed for a nutritional balance in your compost pile. This balance helps with moister content to keep your pile decomposing properly.

Now what should we compost?
Grass/lawn clippings (if you bag or rack your lawn), otherwise I just leave them on the lawn to add back to that soil.
Spoiled hay that has been left out in the rain is great for the compost pile. Various kitchen wastes like fresh produce peelings, coffee grounds, eggshells are very high in nitrogen. Straw, twigs, sawdust & wood chips are also recommended to compost.

Don’t compost this!
Chemically treated wood products, human wastes, diseased plants, pet wastes, meat, bones & fat food waste & pernicious weeds. You don’t want to transfer chemicals, disease and so forth back into your plants or worst yet to your human food supply. You also don’t want to invite pest into your yard with meat scraps. Common sense in this area will go a long way!

Now once you decide if composting is for you, you will need to decide how. There are many options to choose from, manufactured systems to homemade. This I will cover in more detail in part 2. Until then Chimes and Birds wants you to enjoy your yard! Please visit our online store at www.ChimesAndBirds.net and pick out some garden accessories or stepping stones to enhance your home & yard!

New Arrivals! Stepping Stones & Plaques

2009-12-07T06:50:00.006-05:00

Chimes & Birds has expanded its product line again! We now carry decorative stepping stones and wall plaques! Now you can show off your garden with a little extra charm!

Why not a rain barrel?

2009-11-22T19:54:00.002-05:00

In this day and age all are being asked to take part in helping to preserve our planet. After all like our bodies we only have one.

Many of use already recycle a large amount of items in our communities everyday. This ranges from paper, metal, oils & so on. So why shouldn’t we not put rainwater into the recycling mix? This is a great way to water flowerbeds & gardens. It saves on your water bill, if you have one or even lessons the burden on your well. It’s really hard to measure just how much water is flowing out of the end of a hose, but you know with a rain barrel.

Rain barrels are nothing new; they have been around for many years and still are today. Heck in old western movies you can see one at almost every street corner. Most today are found in rural farm areas. As we travel the vast roadways I spot many unique varieties including homemade to purchased water collection systems. I’ve even seen barrels painted with scenery or flowers to be more appealing in a yard.

Today people collect rainwater in many different ways such as pails, tanks, barrels and so on. You can use just about anything as long as it is placed in the right location to collect runoff from a rooftop. There are more expensive systems to purchase or simply make your own. We ran a gutter off the back of our pole barn with a downspout into plastic 55-gallon barrel. ¾” of rain on the rain gage filled it ¾’s up! That’s a lot of FREE water! Our barrel is raised on one layer of level cinder blocks so gravity can pull water through the spigot. I also like dipping 5-gallon pails into the rain barrel and tucking them into my flowerbeds & landscape. This helps to eliminate dragging the hose or hauling water all over the yard. It’s handy at the locations needed and out of site. Then I just us a small watering can to water my plants from the pails. By bailing out water this way I leave room for more runoff into the rain barrel. Plus I get a little more exercise to boot!

Please be advised that this water is NOT SAFE for drinking by people or animals! Use it only for watering plants. Rain collected from rooftops is often contaminated with bird droppings, mold & other debris that stagnate standing water. An open-ended rain barrel is also a good spot for mosquitoes to lay eggs. You can cover the top of the barrel with screen or cheesecloth to help eliminate this.

There are many places to find the right collection system for your needs. You can check local garden centers, on-line or look around your home & see if something could be recycled to serve your need. In my opinion it’s a win, win situation! So start collecting water, just remember if you live in an area that freezes, either empty the barrel or lower the lever to allow for expansion.

Chimes and Birds hopes this has been useful information for you. Please visit the online store & website at www.ChimesAndBirds.com for more tips and yard accessories.

Enjoy your yard & FREE water!

Are your flowerbeds ready to rest?

2009-10-23T15:31:00.004-04:00

Now that summer has passed and winter is soon to approach, we need to shift our minds from mowing the lawn & weeding to snow removal. Lets make sure that our flowerbeds are ready for this season’s upcoming change with a little preparation to assure beautiful flowers will return next spring.

Our shrubs might need some protection also depending where you live. You might choose to give your lawns a little attention also. Either way, this is a great time to give our yard one better look before the snow flies and make sure all is comfy & cozy!

I hope to cover a few basics to help get your yard ready for winter

Watering;
Even though we know summer is over and feel we no longer need to water, we do. A deep watering encourages a strong root system. If a plant does not have enough water taken into its root system before frost, I might not survive the winter. Water all plants sparingly throughout early autumn. This will help plants start with the transition. Once the leaves have dropped from deciduous trees give trees and shrubs a deep watering. Continue to water flowerbeds, trees & shrubs until ground frost will no longer allow water to absorb into the soil. I personally don’t always water this far into the season and still have great result year after year. Use you judgment for your soil type & geographical location.

Remove spent flowers and debris;
It is recommended to cut down perennials. I do this on some but never flush to the ground. I do like to find my plants in spring so I leave some stems. Leaving stems about 3”-4” tall can also help the plant to collect snow for additional insulation to the root system. Remove all annuals from your flowerbeds. This debris can be placed into your compost pile along with leaves, twigs and so on. If you have a lot to move to the compost pile, try putting it on a trap or old sheet. This allows an easier way to pull all over to the pile.

Mulching;
Applying in the fall can help insulate your bulbs & plant roots though winter. About 2” of evenly spread mulch should be sufficient to protect your plants. Don’t pile the mulch around the base of plants, this could lead to excessive water accumulation and rot the plant. All my landscaping and flowerbeds have wood chips to help prevent weeds. In fall I simply move some wood chips over the plants root area to protect them. Come spring I carefully slide the chips out of the way to allow the new growth to come up.

Containers;
Remove flowers from containers & store the pots in a garage, barn or basement so they don’t freeze and crack. If your containers are too large to move or have perennials planted in them you need to protect them from deep freeze. Hay or straw bails around them do a good job but might invite mice.

Shrubs;
Depending where you live you might need to tuck in your shrubs for winter also. Whether its road salt, ice or snow we need to take some steps to prevent damage. Where I live snow is the issue. We make wooden tee-pees to place over shrubs, this way branches don’t snap and brake under the weight of snow. We have also wrapped shrubs with snow fence or burlap. It works but depending on the size of the shrub you might need to stake them so wind and the weight of the snow doesn’t bend everything over & defeat your purpose. Tee-pees are the least work for us but might not be needed in your location.

Lawns;
Although the most I do with our lawn is keep it mowed, my husband takes a few steps here. He will generally put down a broad leaf weed killer. He always rakes the leave. I just mow over them many times and let the snow do the rest. We don’t do thatch removal but now would be the time.

As a final note, remember remove water from all your water fountains & birdbaths. If you can, tip them over to avoid water accumulation. You should otherwise wrap them up tightly to keep water out. These steps should prevent freezing & cracking

Clean all seed bird feeders out. Switch bird feeders to your winter feeders if you have them. Most hummingbird feeders should be down by now, check your local area for guidelines.
Even though the days of sitting in the yard or on a deck have come to an end for this season you can still enjoy your yard!
Be sure to visit http://www.ChimesAndBirds.com for more tips & products for your yard.

ChimesAndBirds.com wants you to enjoy the seasons!

Hummingbird Feeders Down?

2009-09-08T16:44:00.003-04:00

Now that Labor Day has come and gone in the states, it’s time to think about taking down your hummingbird feeders. This all depends on the region you live in so do the research for your location. This information is available in many forms, either by the web, local DNR, bird watching clubs or books. There are locations that will have different varieties of hummer’s year round and they’ll need food. Some areas give a specific time that feeders should be removed, while other say to watch the feeder activity.

Hummers start to migrate between July & October. Their migration is according to the changing day length. Many times they start to migrate while flowers and insects are still available. Males start their journey first, weeks before new hatching's & females. It’s time for you to pay attention to the activity at your hummingbird feeder. If it is recommend you remove the feeder 2 weeks after last seeing any hummingbirds at the feeder, then you need to know when to take down the feeder. At this time of the year I remove all hummingbird feeders except one to help monitor this event.

These little guys will still migrate if the feeder in not removed. At this point food is not their main drive, although they need to add so body mass to go. Many times there are late travelers because of illness or other reasons and they will need to find some food. Sometimes if there is a feeder left out they’re journey will be easier to complete being they got a later start. Please continue to maintain the feeder with fresh food and cleanliness for the late travelers.

Sad but true for must of use hummingbird watchers the days for this season are coming to end. After the final ones leave your yard, it’s a good time to inspect & thoroughly clean your hummingbird feeders. Discard any that just will no longer stand the test of time for next year. Purchase a new feeder now so you’ll have one on hand when spring arrives. All this end of season work will free up time come spring when there are many other yard projects to tend to, until the hummer’s return.

Remember www.ChimesAndBirds.com has many hummingbird & seed feeders available year round for purchase.

What Chime Part Am I?

2009-08-05T09:06:00.004-04:00

The abundant choice for wind chime materials is unbelievable. Although there are many styles & materials to choose, all have the basic components that make them up. Whether you want to purchase or make your own chimes you need to consider the “final musical sound” that your wind chime will produce.

As I said all have petty much the same components to complete the final product. I would like to explain the name & function of the components just in case you want to create or repair a chime.

Starting from the top down:
Hanging ring; Found at the top of wind chimes. Yes you bet, to hang the chimes. Some can be placed on a hook with ease or you might need to modify with wire or string to hang from oh say a tree branch.

String, chain and others; This is the materials used to link all the parts together. Different styles & tone will require different products. More then likely it is the same through out the whole wind chime, but one might get crafty and mix it up a bit!

Cap or top; This is the next part of the chime before all the tubes. The tubes of the wind chimes are connected to this piece. They can be metal, wood, an old pan lid, a board, you get the idea. Once again all it’s about the style of the chime.

Tubes; The heart & sole of the chimes! The number of tubes that chimes have determines the number of notes a chime can play. The more tubes the more sound that can be played. These tubes vary in length, diameter and placement on the cap. Different material types also produce different tones. Bamboo, metal, copper make up some of the tube options available. This helps to make a chime not only aesthetically pleasing, but they offer a range of soothing tones to relax to.

Striker or clapper; Without this very important part your chime would not chime. Well maybe in high winds you would get some kind of noise. Anyway the striker or clapper is mounted to the center of the cap tucked in behind all those tubes. It is placed at a level so the slightest movement will cause it to gently bounce off all the tubes and make peaceful music.

Wind sail; And last but not least the wind sail is found hanging under the clapper and well below the tubes. Its job is to get the action going! With the wind catching the sail it puts the whole chime in motion to work in harmony and play the music. As it moves the clapper moves which in turn moves off the tubes and you have magical sounds.

We at Chimes & Birds hope this has been a helpful article for you. Remember that a wind chime will last for many years with proper placement & care. www.ChimesAndBirds.com offers a large selection of top-quality wind chimes to choose from. Unfortunately at this time we do not offer replacement parts such as strings. A couple of reasons are that manufactures don’t make the string available for consumers. Also the placement of the string to the chime components is very important for proper sound. It would be unfair to our customers to leave them with a less then adequate sound from their wind chimes.

New Decorative Bird House product line!

2009-07-14T14:10:00.009-04:00

We have added Decorative Bird Houses to our store due to customer's requesting us to expand our product lines. These birdhouses are so adorable it's hard to make a choice! To celebrate this new addition all our items are on sale for a limited time. If you're looking for a nice affordable gift for anyone, look no further! We have water themed bird house that will make you feel like you're on a mini vacation. Also so many charmingdiner & store type bird houses, you'll think you stepped back in time! Visit the on-line store at www.ChimesAndBirds.com and enhance your own home, yard or buy something for a friends yard!

Welcome New June Followers!

2009-06-09T10:17:00.004-04:00

We hope you enjoy our information on wind chimes & bird feeders! Please take a minute to visit our online store at http://www.ChimesAndBirds.com! We have more tips and other helpful sites to visit to help you enjoy your yard!

Will spring ever SPRING?

2009-05-14T13:29:00.013-04:00

Where I live spring just won't spring this year! One day the temperatures are 70º and the next we're in winter coats with a foot of SNOW! I have purchased many dollars worth of plant & perennials that need to get in the ground and out of the protection of the barn!

This plan was a really good idea until nursery ship times and Mother Nature forgot to contact one another! I have chosen a large variety for flowers to welcome hummingbirds & butter flies into my new shade/partial shade garden. In my opinion you can't have enough flowerbeds to encourage hummingbirds and butterflies to feed.

Some of the varieties include:
• A new White Feather Hosta which will add a different texture & color.
• Many colors of Astilbe’s to add brilliant color.
• And my most favorite low maintenance shrub, a Variegated Weigela – hummingbirds love it!
Many more to even list!

When ever I put in a new flowerbed I want beauty, NOT WORK! I always use a quality landscaping cloth, edging & wood chips to maintain moister. This helps keep weeds down so I’m able to sit back and relax in my yard. A little hard work up front will lead to years of enjoyment!

I also tend to tuck a birdbath in some of the flower beds. I never place a bird feeder because I don’t want their seed to take root. There are plenty of other locations for bird feeders. By a tree gives birds a secure feeling whether it’s a ground or hanging feeder. I always have bird feeders near by for those little friends. The sounds they bring mixed with a wind chime swaying in the breeze just make the whole thing more enjoyable!

Sooner or later this year my plan will be completed, I must just be patient!

Get out & enjoy your yard!

Welcome Back Tiny Friends!

2009-04-06T14:52:00.005-04:00

Now that spring is trying to make its way, soon the humming birds will return! Let us welcome them to a safe feeding environment. I hope some of the following tips will provide you with much entertainment watching these awesome little birds zip around your yard!

This is North America's smallest bird weighing in as much as 2 paper clips! Boy talk about your "feather weight". Humming birds flap their wings on an average of 50 times per second which enables them to hover with ease. Despite the small size some are able to travel for hours at a time covering thousands of miles while doing so. No wonder they need all the food sources we can provide for them.

Humming birds are pollinators. This is done by pollen collection on their feathers and bill while feeding. Then the pollen is carried over to the next flower. Unlike insect pollinators, humming birds are attracted by sight not smell or fragrance. The color red usually means food to them, but color doesn't really matter as long as the flowers have nectar they can reach.

By choosing and selecting a large variety of flowers that will attract humming birds, they will receive a more balanced diet then just nectar feeding. Remember they have a slender bill & tongue that extends deep into flowers to sip the nectar. Choose flowers that accommodate such as hosta, foxglove, and delphinium and so on. Hanging baskets provide color, flowers and a close up view of the birds through out the season. Some ideas might be fuchsia or trailing petunias. Maybe you should consider a wildflower bed. Just be sure to allow spacing between plants so the humming birds can maneuver through the stems. No matter what option you use to attract these wonderful little birds, just enjoy the results!

Water is also needed for these birds. They need to drink water along with there nectar supply. Bathing at least daily is crucial to keep their rapidly moving wings cleaned. You may use a bird bath, shallow container or waterfall. They even enjoy flying through a sprinkler!

The following tips will help bring & maintain humming birds in your yard for a season of enjoyment.

• Clean humming bird feeders often. A solution of 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water and rinse with warm water at least 3 times before refilling. Try putting some dry rice into the vinegar solution and shake vigorously to remove any dirt or build up.

• Fill feeders with sugar water. Mix 4 parts water to 1 part sugar. Boil for 1 -2 minutes. Cool completely before filling your feeder. NEVER use honey or artificial sweeteners as this will promote harmful bacteria growth. Red food coloring is also not recommended. This mixture can be stored in your refrigerator.

• Hang several feeders in your yard that are far enough apart so hummers cannot see one another; this will prevent one bird from dominating the rest.

• Hang humming bird feeders in the shade to avoid fermentation and spoilage of the sugar solution. Change the solution before it gets cloudy. About 2 times a week.

• Do to the fact that humming birds also eat insects for protein you should avoid using insecticides when ever possible. These can directly harm or kill the birds.

• Research when the hummers will be coming into your area and hang the feeders 2 weeks prior to their arrival. Look up when to remove them for the fall. In my location the rule of thumb is after Labor Day so they know to move on.

By choosing helpful plants, feeder maintenance & care we will enjoy the return of humming birds to our home for years to come. Plus our yard gains the curb appeal! Enjoy those little birdies!

Healthy birds in your yard!

2009-03-17T14:12:00.004-04:00

With spring just around the corner we will be inviting more birds to our yard. At ChimesAndBirds.com we want to help with the"change over" and preparation to do this. We need to ensure that our bird feeders will have the proper food for them to snack on. High protein seeds such as black-oil sunflower seed are a good starting choice. Not all birds are seed feeders such as Robins, so we might need to assist them for a short period until they're able to get worms & insects. There are different types of high protein food such as meal worms & suet to place out while waiting for the snow to go! You can simply place it in a shallow foil pan on a deck, stump or even a snow bank. Suet with seed can be placed in a mesh onion bag & hung off a post or tree limb. You can also get the kids involved and make pine cone feeders with a peanut butter and seed mixture. Just tie a string to them, roll the pine cone in the mixture and hang in the yard!

As bird watchers it is our job to keep our feathered friends healthy. A clean feeding environment is most important to bird’s health! Birds can become ill from moldy or decomposing seeds. Bird droppings can also cause the spread of diseases, not only to the birds but family pets and other ground feeders. Remember, what goes in the bird must come out! Don't place ground feeders or bird baths directly under hanging feeders.

The following are helpful tips to reach the goal of a clean & healthy bird feeding station.

• Clean feeders once every 2 weeks, more often during times of heavy use. Wash the feeder in hot soapy water, we recommend Dawn dish soap. Then soak or rinse it in 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Be sure the feeder is completely dry before refilling with seed.
• Spread your feeders out, crowding your feeders could expedite the spread of disease.
• Clean up the ground and dispose of the waste. The moldy or spoiled food could attract your pets or unwanted rodents.
• Check feeders for sharp edges nails and so forth. A scratch could cause a bird to get an infection.
• DO NOT place suet feeders in direct sun during warmer temperatures. Suet can go rancid when temperatures rise in the 80º mark. I would recommend removing suet feeders in the summertime.

I hope this will help you get started with you seed bird feeders. Look for our future articles on placement for bird & humming bird feeders. Enjoy those birds!

Why I love wind chimes!

2009-03-04T15:05:00.005-05:00

As long as I can remember I’ve enjoyed the outdoors. Camping, hiking, spring blooms in the garden and so on. As an adult I find myself just savoring the peace and beauty of nature. My most relaxing activities might involve feeding and observing the birds in the yard; or just inviting friends and family over for visit. What better way to enjoy your yard sanctuary then with the pleasant sound of wind chimes playing relaxing melodies in the back ground? I adore the unique tones of wind chimes and feeding birds so much that I started my own on-line business www.ChimesAndBirds.com to help share the experience with others.

Wind chimes have been around for thousands of years and stem from many different cultures. They’ve been used in a variety of ways including to ward off evil demons, sprits & ghost. Farmers have used them to scare off birds and other animals from their cultivated fields. Although none of my wind chimes seem to scare off the wild life in my yard! With wind chimes placed in the yard or in your home, you can start to feel the soothing tones lifting away the days’ stresses. It doesn’t take much of a breeze to catch the sail and move the clapper. In turn, this will start to create a place of peace and balance with the music produced by the chimes. The tones and sounds of wind chimes can truthfully change the mood and energy of any living space!

There are actually hundreds of styles and sounds to choose from; hand tuned metal, decorative, short or longer. Every wind chime basically contains the same components to generate the musical element. For deep tones pick a long chime with wide diameter tubes. For higher sounds choose short chimes with narrow diameters. Check out other friends & families chimes to help you find the perfect one to suite your taste.

Along with the many varieties of wind chimes, you’ll find a large selection of materials they can be made of. Most popular are the metal, bamboo, ceramic & glass. What musical tones that are produce will vary, depending on the material used to make the chime. Just give them a little wind power and start to relax to the tranquil sound produced!

With proper placement and minor maintenance of wind chimes you will appreciate years of musical pleasure. Never use hard abrasive cleaners or rags to remove dirt, tree sap, bird droppings, etc. To clean metal parts use a soft cloth and something like WD-40. Other materials can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. Maintenance is quick and simple and will help maintain there new look for years to come! When placing your wind chimes, please remember your neighbors! If you live in an apartment type environment they might not appreciate a large cathedral chime clanging into the night. Remember, chimes don’t need a lot of breeze to dance and make music. If there is a high wind threat, you might want to bring them indoors until the winds clam down.

I hope this will inspire you to start enjoying the relaxation that comes with wind chimes placed in your home, garden or yard.

alt="Blogio.net blog directory" />

Enjoying the outdoors!

2009-02-27T14:10:00.002-05:00

Although I enjoy the winter I'm ready for spring! Summers in Upper Michigan are short so I like to make the most of them while enjoying my yard and nature. I've ordered my spring plants to plant in the new garden area around the house. I have my new bird feeders ready to place out with my summer feed standing by. I picked out a few new wind chimes to sway gently in the breeze for my evening relaxation. I'm Ready!

Blog Directory Links

2009-02-26T13:41:00.013-05:00

Photarium blog directory

The Google Boss

Best Seo Business Directory - search engine optimization services
Best Seo Business Directory - search engine optimization services

Religious Wind Chimes

2009-02-25T14:12:00.000-05:00

Product #: 37826
Description: Lords Prayer Windchimes

Let this religious wind chime be a centerpiece for the sights & sounds of your faith. The cross is deeply inscribed with the Lord's Prayer. Let this inspiring wind chime add a touch of faith to your outdoor space.
Go to ChimesAndBirds.com to view more.

Decorative Wind Chimes

2009-02-25T13:54:00.000-05:00

Product #: 39561
Description: Barn Birdhouse Windchimes

This charming barn wind chimes adds a home for a bird family & merry music for your yard! Much detail to add that "country charm". Find this decorative wind chime and many more at ChimesAndBirds.com.

Humming Bird Feeders

2009-02-25T13:39:00.000-05:00

Product #: 39628
Description: Ladybug Hummingbird Feeder

Lets not forget the tiny colorful little humming birds! They burn up so much energy they need a tasty meal often. This humming bird feeder does double duty. Its beauty will grace your yard or garden with folk art charm while feeding those little friends. You'll have endless entertainment as they visit one of your ChimesAndBird.com humming bird feeders.

Seed Bird Feeders

2009-02-25T13:26:00.000-05:00

Product #: 38677
Description: Hanging Gazebo Bird Feeder

Welcome feathered friends to your yard for a quick meal with this elegant bird feeder. ChimesAndBirds.com has a variety of bird feeders to choose from. Whether you choose a hanging feeder of one that stands on your deck or in the yard, birds will love to visit!

JW Stannard Wind Chimes

2009-02-25T12:33:00.000-05:00

Product #: 38919
Description: JW Stannard Dove Windchimes

For your relaxation while enjoying your yard or deck, own your own hand tuned metal wind chimes from ChimesAndBirds.com
This beautiful JW Stannard wind chime is both lovely in sight & sound!
It's like a waterfall of shimmering silver chimes that play captivating music with the slightest breeze.
View all our metal wind chimes at Chimes & Birds on-line store. Pick one and start to enjoy the clamming sensation wind chimes can bring!