The term “winter mixture” can refer to a few different things, all designed to help you navigate the challenges and joys of the winter months. A winter mixture might be a blend of seeds to feed birds, a concoction to de-ice your driveway, or even a festive blend of spices for your holiday potpourri.
Understanding your options for winter mixtures is important because the right choice can keep you safe, help you enjoy the season, and even support the local environment.
In this article, we’ll explore some common winter mixtures, their uses, and what to consider when you’re choosing the right one for your needs.
Winter birdseed mixtures
If you’re going to put out birdseed this winter, you’ll want to make sure it has the right combination of ingredients to meet the nutritional needs of your feathered friends.
Common ingredients and their benefits
- Sunflower seeds. These are high in oil and give birds the energy they need to stay warm during cold weather. Black oil sunflower seeds are especially good because their shells are thin and the seeds have plenty of calories.
- Nyjer seeds. These tiny, oil-rich seeds attract finches and are generally sold in special feeders with very small holes.
- White proso millet. Doves and sparrows love this seed, and it’s easy for them to digest. It’s also a good source of carbohydrates.
- Cracked corn. This is a great source of energy for larger birds, like jays and crows. Just be careful not to put out too much, or you may attract unwanted critters.
Choosing the right mixture for your region
Think about the kinds of birds that live in your area, and what they like to eat. You can research local bird species and find out what they prefer.
You may also want to change your mix based on the weather. During very cold spells, you can add more high-fat seeds.
Finally, avoid birdseed mixes that have “filler” ingredients like red millet or wheat. Birds aren’t as interested in these seeds, so they can be a waste of money.
De-Icing Mixtures for Home and Road Safety
When winter weather hits, it’s good to have a plan for de-icing your sidewalks, driveways, and roadways. Here are some common de-icing agents, along with some more eco-friendly alternatives.
Common De-Icing Agents
- Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt): Rock salt melts ice fairly well, but it can harm your plants and damage concrete. It works best when temperatures are above 15°F (-9°C).
- Calcium Chloride: This melts ice at lower temperatures than rock salt and is less corrosive to concrete. The downside? It costs more than rock salt.
- Magnesium Chloride: Similar to calcium chloride, magnesium chloride is considered slightly less corrosive. Even so, it can still harm plants if it’s too concentrated.
- Potassium Chloride: This option is less corrosive than the other chlorides, but it’s also not as effective at melting ice. It’s often used along with other de-icing agents.
Environmentally Friendly Alternatives
- Sand: Sand doesn’t melt ice, but it does add traction. You can mix it with salt to make it work a little better.
- Gravel: Like sand, gravel helps with traction. The downside is that it can be messy and hard to clean up when spring arrives.
- Beet Juice: Beet juice is a natural de-icer and less harmful to the environment. It also works at lower temperatures than salt.
Application Tips
- Apply de-icing agents before ice forms to keep it from bonding to the surface. Use a spreader to make sure the agent is distributed evenly.
- Use de-icers sparingly to reduce environmental damage. Sweep up any excess de-icing agent after the ice melts.
Winter potpourri and scent mixtures
As the days get shorter and the weather turns colder, a warm scent can add a touch of coziness to your home. Here are some popular winter scents and how to use them:
Popular winter scents
- Cinnamon. Warm and spicy, cinnamon evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. You can use cinnamon sticks in potpourri, scent your home with cinnamon candles, or use cinnamon essential oil in a diffuser.
- Pine. Fresh and woodsy, the scent of pine calls to mind winter forests. You can use fresh pine needles in potpourri, or use pine essential oil or pine-scented candles.
- Orange. Bright and citrusy, orange adds a touch of cheerfulness to the winter months. Use dried orange slices in potpourri, or diffuse orange essential oil.
- Clove. Warm and aromatic, clove is often associated with holiday baking. Use whole or ground cloves in potpourri or simmer pots.
Creating your own winter potpourri
To make your own potpourri, gather dried ingredients such as pinecones, cinnamon sticks, and orange peels. Make sure the ingredients are completely dry before you combine them, or they could get moldy.
Then, add essential oils to enhance the scent. Experiment with different combinations to create your own unique blend.
Display the potpourri in a decorative bowl or jar, and refresh the scent by adding a few drops of essential oil every few days.
Simmer pot recipes
Another way to scent your home is to combine water, sliced citrus fruits, spices, and herbs in a pot and simmer on low heat. Be sure to monitor the water level and add more water as needed.
Don’t let the mixture boil; that can create an unpleasant smell.
Winter Feed Mixtures for Livestock and Pets
When temperatures drop, it’s important to consider the nutritional needs of your animals, both large and small.
Livestock Considerations
Livestock need more calories in the winter to help them stay warm. You may need to supplement their hay with grains such as corn or barley to give them the extra energy they need.
It’s also important to make sure they get enough water to avoid dehydration. Heated water sources can prevent freezing, which can be a big help.
Winter forage may not have all the nutrients your livestock needs, so consider mineral supplementation. Mineral blocks and loose mineral mixes are good options.
Pet Food Adjustments
Some pets are less active in the winter, and you may need to adjust their portion sizes accordingly. Keep an eye on their weight and adjust their food intake as needed.
Dry winter air can also lead to dehydration, so make sure your pets always have access to fresh water.
Consider supplementing their diet with omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, for healthy skin and coats.
Wrapping Up
From feeding our feathered friends to de-icing sidewalks to scenting our homes, winter mixtures help us get the most out of the season. We even discussed creating a winter mixture that local wildlife can enjoy.
Remember, the key to success is choosing the right mixture for the job, taking into account your local climate, the needs of the species you’re trying to help, and the overall environmental impact of the ingredients.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different winter mixtures to find what works best for you. By understanding and using these mixtures effectively, we can stay safe, support our local ecosystems, and fully embrace the joys of winter.