May 1, 2011
Local Town Pages www.norwoodtownnews.com
Page 15
All-Natural Fertilizer Options for the Backyard Garden Organic fertilizers can be just as effective as their chemical counterparts while providing health benefits chemical pesticides cannot.
tain harmful bacteria or parasites. Not only will manure add nutrients to the soil, it will also help with moisture retention.
Organic fertilizers are effective at strengthening the soil for both lawns and planting beds. There are a number of different materials the home gardener can try, some of which may already be around the house.
Fish meal: Made from ground and dried fish scraps, this fertilizer is a good source of nitrogen. It can provide a boost to soil in the early spring that will last well through the growing season.
Compost: Compost is often called "black gold" because of its rich nutritional content and how it can quickly amend the quality of the soil. Compost heaps or bins can be set up in the yard so that individuals can manufacture their own compost from scraps of material used around the house. Discarded fruit peels, eggshells, leaves, and paper can be added to the compost pile. Over time, natural bacteria will break down the materials until they form an effective fertilizer. Manure: Manure remains one of the best and most practical fertilizers out there. It's easy to find, and any animal that eats a plant-based diet will produce manure that will be acceptable for the garden or lawn. Avoid manure from animals that eat meat as the feces may con-
* Elemental sulfur: A lawn that has turned yellow may be lacking in the right levels of sulfur. Elemental sulfur, when used sparingly, can help boost levels and return the lawn to normal. * Blood meal: This dried blood product is collected from slaughtered animals and can be another nitrogen booster for the soil. Vegetarian gardeners may avoid its use for this reason, however. Some gardening enthusiasts say that blood meal also may be a deterrent for deer and other animals who like to nibble on garden plants. * Peat moss: Peat moss is a type of moss that grows on the top of peat bogs. Peat moss is able to hold large quantities of water in its cells, which makes it a good soil additive to help retain moisture at the roots of plants. This is handy
When shopping for fertilizers, select ones that are all-natural. Many organic fertilizers also can be made from materials at home.
when dealing with very sandy soil or plants that need an increased moisture content to grow well.
Natural fertilizers and soil amendments can make the lawn and garden a safe place for pets,
children and other animals to venture. They're also a good idea for those looking to preserve the health of the planet.
Training for the Dementia Care Provider As the number of diagnosed cases with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias continue to grow to approximately 5.3 million cases in this country; the healthcare community will need to ensure the care provider is able to meet the needs of the dementia client through standardized training programs. Caring Resources, a local company that specializes in dementia care solutions, is providing Dementia Care Provider Training at Avery Crossings, Assisted Living Community located in Needham on May 26th. Caring Resources can assist family members and care providers to give the best care for those living with dementia through our training modules. Our curriculum provides a positive learning environment, with educational material linking classroom learning with practicum experience. Our standards of care allow participants to gain innovative skills and strategies to meet the needs of the dementia client. Our training modules will prepare the
care provider for high quality dementia care, while giving family members peace of mind and a dignified quality of life for the dementia client. Participants will develop creative techniques in dementia care concepts as well as innovative strategies for incorporating best practices for the dementia client.
Our training is divided into two tracks. Upon completion of the training course, students will be provided a Certificate of Completion and meet the Student Participation Agreement. For more information regarding our training please contact a representative at Caring Resources:caringresources@yahoo.com or 781-5409357.
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56 BROADWAY • NORWOOD
Walk-ins Always Welcome • Men and Women • Ample Parking • New Owner Reduced Prices • Friendly Professional Knowledgeable Staff • Gift Certificates
(781) 769-1454
55 EAST COTTAGE ST., NORWOOD, MA 02062
Open Everyday: Mon - Sat 11am - 10pm • Sunday 4pm - 10 pm
781-769-0630
Next to Norwood Sports Center
www.sharphairstudioinc.com
Serving our customers fine Italian food for 20 years.