Northern & Central Midwest  May, 2005 Regional Report  Keep That
Bulb Foliage  Braiding the foliage of daffodils may look
interesting, but it actually reduces the amount of light the
leaves receive. Besides, it takes a lot of time! Instead, plant
perennials or annuals that will grow up and hide the foliage
while it finishes its task of feeding the bulb.  Provide Water
for Migrating Birds  It's time for the May migrating birds to
come: tanagers, orioles, buntings, and warblers. They are
attracted to the sound of water droplets, so provide some sort
of water motion in your birdbaths. There are several options on
the market, or just prop a narrow hose to drip gently into a
ground level bath.  Make Cut Flowers Last a Long Time  When
bringing flowers, such as lilacs and crab apple, indoors for the
table, cut the stems in early morning when they are only half-
opened. Cut them again when you put them in the vase, and use
sharp pruners to make a slit along the woody stem to increase
water uptake.  Watch for Iris Bore