Backyard Columbus with Cathy Tiffany

In this episode of Backyard Columbus, we’re talking about how to attract more birds to your yard by creating the kind of habitat they actually need. Following the National Wildlife Federation’s basic habitat guidelines, we’ll look at the importance of providing food, water, cover, and places for birds to raise their young. We’ll also talk about why native plants matter, how trees, shrubs, flowers,...

A suburban yard doesn't have to be just grass, mulch, and a few shrubs. Even a regular neighborhood yard can become a place that feeds your family, supports pollinators, welcomes wildlife, creates beauty, and gives you peaceful places to enjoy being outside. In this episode, I can use our own 9,237 sq. ft. yard as an example, not as a “do all of this” checklist, but as proof that small changes ove...

In this episode of Backyard Columbus, we’re talking about garden guilt, social media clickbait, No Mow May, native plants, and the pressure to do everything “perfectly” when trying to create a better backyard habitat. Good ideas can sometimes turn into all-or-nothing arguments online, and that can make regular people feel overwhelmed, judged, or unsure where to begin. Instead of chasing perfection...

In this episode of Backyard Columbus, we explore the basics of raising butterflies in Ohio, from finding eggs or caterpillars to releasing adult butterflies after they eclose. We’ll talk about why host plants matter, how native nectar sources support adult butterflies, and how a butterfly-friendly backyard can help pollinators thrive. This episode is part practical guidance, part love letter to th...

Feeling excited about your garden but overwhelmed by all the possibilities? In this episode, we're talking about simple garden planning, how to start small, choose your first spaces, and enjoy the process without trying to do everything at once. For more information on pollinators, pollinator gardens, gardening, landscape ideas and all kinds of other fun stuff you can do in your own backyard, plea...

Have you thought about starting a pollinator garden this year? To ensure you get the pollinators you're hoping for, choosing the right plant will go a long way in helping to make your garden successful. What's the difference between native, non-native, exotic and invasive plants? Well, buckle up, because I'll help you sort that out as well as some great planting choices that will have pollinators...

Many people seem to be talking about dandelions...ok, so not EVERYONE, but the online chatter is that dandelions are an amazing source of pollen and nectar for early season bees. But is it? Let's find out..... For great ideas on native spring plants, check out this link: https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/ohiodnr.gov/documents/natural-areas/Wildflowers/wildflowerchecklist-horizontal03092021....

From feeders to birdbaths, there are many things we can do to welcome birds into our outdoor living space. In today's episode, I'm going to share some ideas on how you can attract these interesting little creatures to your yard and add some beauty for you, too! Some bird extra tips: https://blog.nwf.org/2011/01/for-beginners-four-cant-miss-ways-to-attract-birds-to-your-yard-or-deck/ For more infor...

Winter is the perfect time to dream up your garden. In this episode, we talk simple, practical planning for Ohio gardeners who are ready to get started or start fresh. From pollinator-friendly gardens and native plants to raised bed vegetable growing, we’ll cover how to plan a garden that works with your space, your schedule, and our local climate. No pressure, no perfection, just thoughtful steps...

I get asked all the time about our chickens and if they're ok in our Ohio winters. With the right knowledge and planning, the answer is yes! If you're thinking about getting backyard chickens this spring, this episode will be helpful! For everything you need to know about backyard chickens, check out this book: https://amzn.to/3YRIF06 City Chicks, by Pat Foreman For more information on pollinators...

2025 is a wrap, we're on to the next year and with it comes some reflection. January is a great time to plan for the year ahead but it's always good to take a look back and see what worked - and what did'nt...in life and in the garden! Here's a look back at what worked and what didn't in our suburban yard. Hopefully it will give you some ideas and save you some hassle. Links: Square foot gardening...

Winter is a cool time for birding- pun intended! It's a growing pastime and backyard birding is easy and doesn't have to be expensive. In today's episode, I'll share a few ideas of how to attract and care for our feathered friends this season. For some backyard birding supplies, check out my Amazon Affiliate store: https://amzn.to/3MM6WBS For more information on pollinators, pollinator gardens, ga...

The latest research for the monarch butterfly offers up some hopeful news and encouragement. In today's short episode, I'll share with you the information behind the findings and how we can keep the momentum going! For more information on pollinators, pollinator gardens, gardening, landscape ideas and all kinds of other fun stuff you can do in your own backyard, please follow me: Blog & backyard P...

What's the simplest and most attractive way to make a difference in the world around you? Starting a pollinator garden, of course! In today's episode, I'll share some ideas and a few thoughts to help you get started. Helpful links: Chadwick Arboretum guide of native Ohio plants: https://chadwickarboretum.osu.edu/sites/chadwick/files/imce/pdf/NATIVE_chart_grow-condition_pollinators_2020.pdf For mor...

Once a symbol of resilience and wonder, the monarch butterfly is now facing a perilous decline. In this episode, I'll uncover the growing challenges threatening its survival. From disappearing milkweed and habitat loss to the impacts of climate change, I'll explore what’s driving the monarch’s struggle and what each of us can do to help protect this iconic traveler of the skies. For more informati...

When the garden fades and the blooms dry up, it might feel like cleanup time — but don’t grab those pruners just yet! In this episode, I dig into why leaving dead flowers and stems standing through winter is one of the best things you can do for your garden’s health. From feeding birds and sheltering pollinators to protecting the soil, you’ll discover how a “messy” garden can be a thriving ecosyst...

All the buzz this time of year is about why you should leave the leaves in your yard or garden. But why? In today's episode I'll share with you two basic reasons why leaving the leaves is actually a smart idea. For more information on pollinators, pollinator gardens, gardening, landscape ideas and all kinds of other fun stuff you can do in your own backyard, please follow me: Blog & backyard Photo...

Fall is an awesome time to plant your perennial seeds for next season, but what if you aren't ready? In today's episode, I'll share with you how to achieve success in planting, even if you're short on gardening time now. Short and sweet, I hope to help you have a successful perennial garden next year! For more information on pollinators, pollinator gardens, gardening, landscape ideas and all kinds...

Fall is a perfect time to get started planting your pollinator garden! Whether you want to enhance what you have or start from scratch, fall is the most economical time to do it. In this episode, I'll share some tips to get you started in the right direction! Helpful links: https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/ENT-47 https://nativeplantfinder.nwf.org/ https://extension.psu.edu/incorporate-pennsylvan...

As a Habitat Ambassador for the National Wildlife Federation, I've studied and lived how to garden to attract wildlife. For practical purposes, in this episode I'm specifically talking about birds, bees, butterflies and all the pretty things we wanna see in our yards! In today's episode, I'll share the five elements needed to make that happen and, as usual, my many other, scattered thoughts thrown...

In this episode, I explore natural and eco-friendly ways to keep mosquitoes at bay without harming pollinators or the planet. From utilizing mosquito predators to tips on eliminating standing water and using biological controls, learn how to enjoy your yard bite-free—sustainably. For mosquito buckets, check out https://homegrownnationalpark.org/mosquito-bucket-challenge/ or Sam on Instagram: @skee...

Even this late in the season - we're in midsummer now - it's not too late to create a pollinator garden. You'd be amazed at what you can create in a really small space! In today's episode, I'll share some ideas and hopefully you'll be encouraged to jump right in this summer and start enjoying the bees, butterflies and other pollinators that are sure to stop by. For more information on pollinators,...

Did spring sneak right past you and now we're in the heat of the summer and you didn't get your garden done? Believe it or not, it isn't too late! In today's episode we talk about what you can still plant and how to keep it alive. For planting info for vegetables, check out this link: https://athens.osu.edu/sites/athens/files/imce/Ag_Docs/Garden%20Calendar_1.pdf For more information on all things...

National Pollinator Week 2025 is June 16-22 and is to promote conservation and awareness of our pollinators. Did you know that many of the fruits and vegetables we eat wouldn't be possible without pollinators? In today's episode, I'll share with you some info and very easy ways you can help turn the tide on the decline of pollinators. This is a situation where we can actually help! For more inform...

Why do I love to garden and why do you? Or do you? In today's episode, I share some of the "whys' of gardening and how it makes and keeps me happy and how it could help you, too! Resources: Michael Judd: "Edible Landscaping" - great book about designing an edible landscape in your yard or property Dr. Doug Tallamy: "Bringing Nature Home" He also started the website "Homegrown National Park" ; same...