The Fence Post

Easy and Quick, Brown and Green

Today I am going to talk about Composting Your Way To A More Bountiful Garden. Watch out for mention of the Browns and the Greens. Read on...

Sustainable Gardening with Wire Mesh

In the realm of sustainable gardening and waste management, finding practical solutions that balance durability and affordability is paramount. Enter wire mesh (Tada!!) – a versatile material that has garnered attention for its potential in creating composting enclosures. Whether you're a seasoned gardener looking to enhance soil health or a homeowner interested in reducing organic waste, wire mesh offers a compelling solution you might want to consider.

Choosing the Right Wire Mesh

Two popular options stand out for constructing compost bins: chicken wire and hardware cloth. Each wire mesh type has distinct characteristics catering to different needs and preferences.

Chicken Wire: Known for its classic hexagonal woven pattern with 1” openings, chicken wire offers a cost-effective solution for building compost enclosures. Its lightweight nature makes it easy to manipulate and shape into desired configurations. However, while chicken wire is suitable for containing compost materials, it may lack the durability needed for long-term use, particularly in areas with harsh weather conditions or frequent disturbances.

Hardware Cloth: On the other hand, hardware cloth presents a more robust alternative. Featuring a tight welded wire, typically the openings are ¼-½”, hardware cloth offers enhanced strength and durability compared to chicken wire. This makes it well-suited for constructing sturdy compost bins that can withstand the rigors of outdoor environments. While hardware cloth may come at a slightly higher cost than chicken wire, its longevity and reliability justify the investment for many gardeners and homeowners.

Constructing Your Compost Bin

When selecting wire mesh for a composting enclosure, it's essential to consider factors such as size, shape, and ventilation. A cylindrical or rectangular design allows efficient composting and easy access to the finished product. Additionally, incorporating adequate ventilation ensures proper airflow and decomposition within the bin.

Once you've chosen the appropriate wire mesh for your composting needs, constructing the enclosure is straightforward. Begin by measuring and cutting the mesh to the desired dimensions, leaving ample room for compost materials to accumulate. You can cut panels from the wire and zip-tie them together or make a circle with the mesh and zip-tie the two ends.

Composting Materials

As you fill the compost bin with kitchen scraps, garden waste, and other organic materials, periodically turn the contents to promote aeration and accelerate decomposition. Over time, the organic matter will break down into nutrient-rich compost, ready to be incorporated into your garden soil or used as a natural fertilizer.

Composting is a natural process that transforms organic materials into nutrient-rich soil amendments. While there are specific guidelines to ensure a healthy compost pile, a wide variety of materials can be composted. Here's a comprehensive list of what you can compost:

• Fruit and vegetable scraps: Including peels, cores, rinds, and seeds.
• Coffee grounds and filters: Used coffee grounds are an excellent nitrogen source.
• Tea leaves and tea bags: Ensure tea bags are made of compostable materials.
• Eggshells: Crushed eggshells add calcium to the compost pile.
• Yard waste: Grass clippings, leaves, weeds (without seeds), and small branches.
• Plant trimmings: Prune flowers and foliage from your garden.
• Shredded paper: Newspaper, cardboard, paper towels, and napkins (avoid glossy or colored paper).
• Wood chips and sawdust: Untreated wood materials can be composted in moderation.
• Straw and hay: Often used as animal bedding, straw and hay can also be composted.
• Nutshells: Including peanut shells, walnut shells, and others.
• Seaweed and kelp: Excellent sources of minerals and nutrients for compost.
• Old potting soil: Used potting mix can be revitalized through composting.
• Hair and fur: Human and pet hair, as well as fur clippings, can be composted.
• Fireplace ashes: Wood ash adds minerals and can help balance pH levels in the compost.
• Dryer lint: From natural fibers such as cotton and wool.
• Paper towels and napkins: Used paper towels and napkins can be composted if they are chemical-free.
• Pet waste (from herbivores only): Rabbit droppings, guinea pig bedding, and other herbivore waste can be composted, but avoid carnivore or omnivore waste due to potential pathogens.
• Houseplant trimmings: Trimmed leaves and stems from indoor plants.
• Stale bread and grains: Moldy or stale bread, pasta, rice, and other grains can be composted.
• Spent flowers: Wilted flowers and floral arrangements.

While this list covers many common compostable materials, it's essential to avoid composting certain items, such as meat, dairy, oils, fats, diseased plants, and materials treated with pesticides or chemicals. Properly balancing carbon-rich (browns) and nitrogen-rich (greens) materials is critical to successful composting. Experimenting with different materials and observing how they break down can help you fine-tune your composting process and produce nutrient-rich compost for your garden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, wire mesh offers a practical and cost-effective solution for creating composting enclosures that promote sustainable gardening practices and reduce organic waste. Whether you opt for the affordability of chicken wire or the durability of hardware cloth, harnessing the power of wire mesh opens up a world of possibilities for enriching your garden and minimizing your environmental footprint.

Though we are still buried in snow in New Hampshire, my daughter in Texas wrote today to say that it is 86 degrees, and the peach tree is blooming! Either way, it’s time to plan for Spring planting and composting. Here’s a great place to start.

I’d love to hear your clever ideas for composting your organic waste. And share pictures!

My warmest regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (Umm, that’d be just over thirteen decades owned and run by our family!)

O Beautiful For Spacious Skies

In the heart of America, where the sky stretches endlessly and the land breathes with untamed beauty, a sense of freedom exists only in vast, unfenced landscapes. A sanctuary for the soul lies amidst the rolling plains and towering peaks – the National Parks of America.

A Portal to Adventure

For me, these parks are more than just patches of wilderness created by God and preserved by the hands of humanity. They are portals to adventure, gateways to discovery, and reminders of the boundless wonders of America’s natural world. But perhaps what I cherish most about these places is the freedom they afford – the freedom to roam, explore, and connect with the world around me in its purest form.

I remember the first time I stepped foot into one of these parks, the air thick with the scent of forest and earth, the mountains rising like guardians of an ancient realm. Mosses and ferns and dripping water. It was as if the boundaries of civilization had melted away, leaving me with nothing but breathtaking scenery and endless possibilities. I was in the heart of the Great Smokies National Park, enveloped by streams and waterfalls, the rhododendron and mountain laurel elevated me spiritually to realms hitherto not known. Cades Cove and its preserved homestead connected me to a deep, rich history of the land.

Memories of the Great Outdoors

Years later, I spent the summer of 1976 in Colorado. Nestled among the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains, The Rocky Mountain National Park is a testament to the power of preservation and the spirit of exploration. The wilderness reigns supreme here, inviting visitors to lose themselves in towering summits, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. I well remember our nine-mile hike one summer day. Nine of us, all summer workers at a conference center, got a lift to the top of the trail and began our descent down. It was there I was first introduced to Aspen trees and the fantastic story of their extensive root system. Seeing the quaking Aspen leaves was mesmerizing, as was hiking across meadows I was in heaven! We arrived at a series of “punch bowls,” as some called them–depressions in the rock filled with icy cold water deep enough to swim in. Edward jumped across and then handed me his hand to help me jump over. Boy, was I a sucker! He pulled me right into the freezing water! By the time it was said and done, all of us were enjoying an arctic swim. We got a big laugh and trudged home with sopping wet clothes and boots. Dinner was so welcome that night.

That same summer, as we drove home to Georgia from Colorado, we spent a couple of days at the Grand Canyon National Park. Oh, my word! What a spectacular sight that is!

Exploring Acadia and Yellowstone

In the summer of 1998, my brother and his family drove up to New Hampshire from Alabama to go camping with us in Acadia National Park in Maine. With bated breath, the children and I awaited his arrival. Was I ready? Was I packed? That’s another story.

The year Duncan, former proprietor of Louis Page, passed, I was invited to come to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and hike in Yellowstone National Park. Besides being a bit afraid of meeting a grizzly (okay, a lot afraid), the time spent was fabulous. We did birdwatching on a guided tour, watched pronghorn (once called antelope) bounding the plains, and saw about a hundred bison grazing a hundred yards away — so many gorgeous scenes.

The Freedom of National Parks

I have many more of the 63 national parks to visit. I’d love to hear where you have been and what you saw. Let me know!

As I reflect on my hikes along the trails that wound through the pristine wilderness of these national parks, I can't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer magnitude of the natural world. Every step was a reminder of the vastness of the earth and the endless possibilities that lay beyond the horizon.

But it wasn't just the grandeur of the scenery that filled me with gratitude – it was the freedom to experience it on my terms. Unlike so much of the world divided by fences and barriers, the National Parks of America remain open and accessible to all who seek to explore them.

Whether gazing out over the expanse of the Great Plains or standing in awe beneath the towering sequoias of Sequoia National Park, America has something truly special – a connection to nature and a heritage that stretches back through the ages.

The Need for Fences

In a world that often feels increasingly confined and constrained, the unfenced horizons of the National Parks of America stand as a symbol of freedom and possibility. They remind us that no matter how far we may roam, there will always be places where we can find solace, inspiration, and the freedom to explore. And for that, I am eternally thankful.

But, back to the land where we live our daily lives, we usually need a fence to keep us or our animals and crops safe from predators and dangers. And Louis Page has the solution to your situation. Visit us here.

Warmest Regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (Add it up, that's 131 years owned and run by our family!)

When The Guest Confuses The Name of What Haunts Her

I heard this story from a former tour guide in Malawi the other day and thought it was worth retelling. One of his treasured anecdotes from his time as a tour guide and translator in Malawi centers around a lady from another group staying at the same lodge during her visit to Liwonde National Park.

A Night in Liwonde National Park

Nestled in the heart of Africa, Malawi is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including serene lakeshores, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Liwonde National Park, situated in the country's southern region, is a prime example of Malawi's natural beauty, boasting an array of wildlife, such as elephants, hippos, and various bird species.

In many unfenced lodges across Africa, including those in Malawi, it's crucial for guests to be escorted to and from their tents after nightfall. Despite this advice, some guests still venture out alone, only to rethink their decision upon encountering a solitary hippo or elephant.

The Misidentified Guest

After dinner one evening, a petite elderly English lady, likely over 80 years old, bid us goodnight and was escorted to her tent.

Fifteen minutes later, she reappeared at the bar/restaurant area. With her characteristic politeness, she expressed concern, saying, "There's a gecko in my room." While geckos and lizards occasionally find their way into tents, she was reassured not to worry, as they pose no threat to humans. Once again, she was escorted back to her tent. However, she returned after another 10-15 minutes, distressed because the creature was beneath her bed, disrupting her sleep. This time, she was informed that having a gecko in the room was beneficial as they prey on mosquitoes.

Upon her final return, the lodge manager, slightly perturbed, decided to investigate and remove the troublesome "gecko" from beneath the woman's bed. To everyone's surprise, what she had identified as a gecko turned out to be a massive monitor lizard. These monitor lizards are notably giant, sometimes reaching over six feet (about two meters). Somehow, the poor creature had found its way into the tent and became trapped in the mosquito netting. Understandably furious, it repeatedly struck the bed with its tail, frightening the elderly lady who was struggling to sleep.

Fencing Out the Unexpected

Knowing a gecko from a monitor lizard can make a massive difference if you want to fence them out. We have wire meshes that gradually get smaller at the bottom; though it likely wouldn’t stop a gecko, it definitely will stop a monitor lizard!

Check our mesh fencing here.

Who has a story about lizards, snakes, or Africa? I’m waiting.

Warmest regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (So 131 years ago our family ancestor Louis E. founded the company)

What Life Lies in the Old Cedar Post?

In 1981, nestled in the picturesque town of Lilburn, Georgia, our family embarked on an adventure as we moved into our first home. With the enthusiasm of new homeowners, we eagerly set out to explore every nook and cranny of our property.

A Connection to the Past

It didn't take long to realize that our neighborhood was once part of a sprawling dairy farm, its legacy evident in the remnants of the original fence that still bordered the eastern edge, weaving a connection to the area's pastoral past.

Amidst the lush landscape, a charming discovery awaited us: an old cedar fence post standing sentinel next to a majestic pine tree marking our property line. Just beyond this weathered fence lay a serene, year-round creek whose melodious babble became the soundtrack to countless warm days spent frolicking in its cool embrace.

Memories and Adventures

We brought three children into this world while living in this home. It was here, amidst the gentle flow of the water, that my children and I found recreation and a classroom where the study of geography unfolded with each ripple and eddy.

One autumn, our wanderlust led us to Dial, Georgia, where we reunited with cherished family friends. During the day, we immersed ourselves in the rustic beauty of the woods, relishing hearty breakfasts cooked over an open flame. To this day, the memory of savoring pancakes, sausage, and eggs beneath the vast expanse of the sky remains one of my most cherished recollections.

Our adventures continued as we embarked on hikes along the legendary Appalachian Trail, traversing the rugged peaks of North Georgia. Towering mountains, including the formidable Blood Mountain, stood as testaments to nature's grandeur, their peaks reaching heights unmatched along the trail for hundreds of miles.

The highlight for my children? Undoubtedly, it was the thrill of crossing the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi, suspended majestically over the Toccoa River, spanning an impressive 270 feet.

Evenings found us gathered around crackling campfires, wrapped in a tapestry of old tales and harmonica melodies courtesy of our friend Fred. Each story was a kaleidoscope of color and whimsy, weaving laughter into the fabric of our memories.

Nature's Bounty and Legends

Inspired by the natural splendor of our surroundings, we returned home laden with native shrubs lovingly transplanted from our friends' property. Among them, the "Cat's Paw," or "Hearts-a-burstin'-with-love" (Euonymus americanus), held a special place in my heart. Its vibrant pinkish-red capsules, bursting open in a triumphant display of orange seeds each fall, captured the essence of the season's transition.

For those interested in Sleeping Beauty, the Euonymus americanus has a European cousin called the Spindletree. Legend has it that this tree contains a poison that would put you into a deep sleep if you pricked your finger on it. And that’s what happened to Sleeping Beauty!

Determined to bring a piece of north Georgia to our home, I eagerly added it to my planting plans for the coming fall. Against all odds, my decision to plant the "Hearts-a-burstin'-with-love" next to the weathered cedar fence post proved fortuitous. Come spring, the shrub erupted in a profusion of delicate white flowers, heralding the arrival of a bountiful harvest of fruit that quite literally burst open with love.

Stories and Fences

And so, as I reflect on our adventures, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of nature's wonders and the timeless tales that bind us all. From the legend of Sleeping Beauty, with its echoes in the European cousin of the Euonymus americanus, to the silent stories whispered by fences weathered by time. Fences have stories to tell, from old cedar posts to wire mesh growing around trees.

What they would tell us if they could talk. But you can talk, so dear reader, won't you share your fence tales with me? All of us are full of stories, so don’t be bashful like the dwarf; tell me your stories! Do tell!

After all, dwarves aren't the only ones with stories to tell!

For inspiration (or is this “fence-piration”?), visit my online store at Louis Page.

Warmest regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (Absolutely, that’s 131 years owned and run by our family)

Back In The Day It Was All About Hay

In 1893, a spirited young man named Louis embarked on a journey from his hometown in Maine to Boston, seeking new horizons. Fueled by ambition, he surveyed the bustling cityscape with the eyes of an entrepreneur. Amidst the clattering of hooves and the rhythm of wagons, he envisioned a venture in the hay trade to nourish the horses that powered the city.

Thus began the humble genesis of Louis E. Page, a legacy that endures into 2024 with unwavering vitality, defying the expectations of its inception.

A Legacy of Resilience

So Louis Page is commemorating its 131st anniversary—a remarkable milestone worth celebrating!

Cast your thoughts back 131 years to the time when Grover Cleveland took office for his second presidential term and the American landscape brimmed with innovation. It was the year when the Duryea brothers unveiled the first American-made gasoline-fueled car, and Thomas Edison unveiled his pioneering motion picture studio. Against this backdrop of progress, Louis Page laid the cornerstone of its enduring legacy.

Louis Page stands as a testament to resilience in a landscape where longevity is a rare gem.

Adaptability and Commitment

This stalwart enterprise has remained steadfast through two world wars, epidemics, technological revolutions, and societal shifts. Adaptability to evolving industrial landscapes has been crucial, but an unwavering commitment to customer service is paramount among its enduring values. Yes, I know it sounds like corporate-speak, but it’s truly the way I and my people do business to this day.

This dedication has cemented Louis Page’s place in the annals of American business history.

Makes me feel humble just writing it!

Continuing the Tradition

Today, as a third-generation, woman-owned enterprise, Louis Page continues its tradition of excellence, serving a diverse clientele spanning from chicken farmers to dog trainers and from ranchers to industrial enterprises. Our products grace the landscapes of farms, construction sites, parks, and zoos, reflecting the breadth of our reach and the versatility of our offerings.

Join us in embracing our legacy and entrust your next project to a company that has stood the test of time—Louis Page – where tradition meets innovation since 1893.

Wouldn’t Louis have been amazed to know you would be able to order from his company with a few taps or clicks from hundreds of miles away? Visit us here.

My warm regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (“...where tradition meets innovation since 1893.” Hmm. That's us. Maybe I’ll use it again!)