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Showing posts from April, 2025

Mulching Materials for Bruce County’s Climate

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Mulch is a thick layer of material placed over the soil and around plants, used to suppress weeds and lock moisture into the soil while acting as a physical barrier to drying winds and direct sun (BBC Gardeners' World Magazine, 2021). Given the unique climate and diverse soil conditions in Bruce County, selecting the right and best mulch is important for a strong and healthy garden that is appropriate for the needs of the plants and the local environment. There are many materials you can use for this purpose; the only types you should ever consider using in your garden are those from natural and biodegradable materials. Wood chips, pine bark, leaves, straw, grass clippings – these are all examples of beneficial mulch because they decompose and provide many more benefits to your soil (Lamp’l, 2019).   Wood Chips Wood chips are shredded, chipped, or ground-up pieces of wood. It sometimes includes bark, branches, and leaves (Kraus, 2021). Wood chips are a great option for gardens...

Types of Wood Used in Building Homes in Canada

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Almost 40% of Canada's land area is covered by woods, making it one of the world's top producers of lumber. The economy depends heavily on the timber industry, which provides premium wood for both residential and commercial building. Because of its strength, sustainability, and natural insulating properties, wood is still a popular material for new homes. But not all types of wood are created equal; each type has specific characteristics that make it suitable for different parts of a home. Understanding these differences can help homeowners and builders select the best material for their projects. SOFTWOODS Spruce In Canada, spruce is one of the most popular softwoods because of its availability and affordability. For structural elements like roofing, flooring, and framing, it is a great option because it is both strong and lightweight. Spruce is easier to cut and shape because of its fine, uniform grain, which also improves workability. Even though it doesn't naturally res...