Jo LaMore

I also have experience with not only bindweed, but Russian thistle (tumbleweeds), goatheads (puncturevine) and sandburs. I have tried manually removing bindweed in moist soil, but it really does kind of go on forever.

Last year I got a big delivery of compost and made piles here and there to save long treks. The bindweed would grow around the outside edges of the compost, but never came up within the pile.

I'm guessing that you might have to fight the fight of pulling invaders for awhile, but once the decomp/humus-building begins it might take care of itself. I can only hope.

I am a bit worried about 4-legged invaders though. I have kangaroo rats and rabbits (cottontail and jack) in my area. I'm wondering if I'll have to worry about them invading for food or shelter?

It's always something. - Roseanne Rosannadanna's father.

I, too, am eyeing some charred logs that I hope to "offer" to remove for free.

Awaiting your advice as well.

Jo

This is a brilliant technique for acquiring water when it refuses to fall from the sky, as it currently is doing in Central New Mexico. I have watched the rainfall amount in my region go from the "abundant" and "normal" yearly amount of 11 inches a year, last seen in 2007 with 10.22", from that high we have seen our yearly total dwindle...2008-8.36, 2009-6.67, 2010-8.94, 2011-4.7 and 2012-5.46.

I will be experimenting with various types of air wells to see what works best. If I can get a few established around my main trees and planting areas, I hope to reduce the well water I am currently expending to water these plantings and save on two fronts.

Thank you for the information. I am encouraged.

Jo LaMore
Belen, NM