This new year is quickly becoming a little surprising already. Many of the calls I’ve received are suspiciously starting with “S” subjects. The winter season has its usual calls about early spring fertilizing (don’t do it), spinach harvesting (yes, do it), and soil sampling (absolutely yes, do it). In addition, I’ve had some unusual winter calls about spiders, snakes, snails and slugs. These sometime scary creatures are mostly harmless and a common sampling of garden creatures.

Spiders in the garden can be beneficial as scavengers to more damaging insects. Sometimes an unexpected visit to the gardener, however, can create a short screaming fit. Although spiders rarely bite humans, a few are dangerously venomous. The orange hourglass shape of the black widow or the secretive brown recluse are two to surely to stay away from.

Slithering snakes are another garden specimen that most folks shy away from. Snakes also are beneficial but often spook even the most seasoned gardener. If you see a snake, my suggestion is to simply let it slide by. Snakes generally are found in brushy areas surrounding your yard or garden. They're most often seeking supper and not out to scare people. Allow your snakes to snack on less beneficial small mammals.

Snails and slugs are other slimy pests in gardens. Severe damage of succulent leaves and stems is the first sign of these critters. The evidence of a shimmering, slimy trail usually is sure proof of snails and slugs. Snails and slugs are similar. The most obvious difference is that snails have shells. One easy method of subtracting snails and slugs from selected surroundings is to simply hand pick them. To be effective, search and destroy them before sunrise and after sunset. Dropping them in a salty solution will end their existence.

There are many other subjects I could speak about that begin with “S,” but I would have to refer to another spelling resource. So I must stop… have a shinning spring season.