1. Japanese Zen Garden Elements: Introduce a sense of tranquility with a Zen garden corner featuring sand or fine gravel raked into calming patterns. Add a few rocks and simple, clean-lined plants like Japanese maples or bamboo to capture the essence of a meditative space.
2. English Cottage Garden Touches: Plant densely packed flower beds with a mix of perennials and annuals to achieve the charming and bustling look of an English cottage garden. Foxgloves, hollyhocks, and delphiniums are perfect for adding height and drama.
3. Italian Herb Garden: Dedicate a section of your garden to aromatic herbs commonly used in Italian cooking such as basil, oregano, and thyme. Use terracotta pots for a Mediterranean feel, and perhaps include a small fountain or statue to complete the theme.
4. Regular Gardening Tasks: June is also a time for essential gardening tasks in Bedford. Ensure your plants are well-watered during warmer days, mulch garden beds to retain moisture, and keep an eye on plant health to tackle pests or diseases early.
5. Pollinator-Friendly Plants: Incorporate plants like lavender, salvia, and zinnias, which are attractive to bees and butterflies. Not only do these plants add vibrancy and life to your garden, but they also support local ecosystems.
6. Vertical Gardening: Utilize vertical spaces by installing trellises or growing vines. This can be especially useful for small gardens, and you can choose plants that reflect a specific cultural aesthetic, such as wisteria for a Japanese-inspired garden or ivy for an English look.

By integrating these tasks and cultural elements into your Bedford garden in June, you can create a uniquely personal and culturally rich garden space. This approach not only enhances the visual appeal of your garden but also makes it a more enjoyable and reflective place to spend time.

The post June Gardening in Bedford: Infusing Cultural Flair into Your Garden Projects first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

June 19 | City Hall Closed-Juneteenth

Library Events

Summer Lunch – Kids ages 18 & younger
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Monday through Friday during the summer we collaborate with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank to provide children with free healthy lunches at select branches. The Summer Lunch program is open to all kids ages 18 and younger. The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Family Storytime – All ages with caregiver
Monday, June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – 6:00 PM
Join us for stories, songs and fingerplays.

Disasters on the Lake Erie Islands – Adults
Tuesday, June 3 – 7:00 PM
Beautiful and deadly, the Lake Erie islands off the coast of Ohio have seen their fair share of disasters. The Victory Hotel on South Bass Island at Put-in-Bay was once the largest hotel in the nation. But the grand residence was reduced to ashes after a spark quickly became a raging, uncontrollable inferno. Reports of smallpox on Pelee Island resulted in mass hysteria and the quarantine of an entire island. At the Toledo Harbor Lighthouse, one light keeper was frozen in for days with his deceased colleague until he could make a desperate escape. Wendy Koile chronicles the fiercest calamities to shatter the tranquility of these solitary shores. Wendy Koile is fascinated with obscure Ohio and maritime history. She has authored four books focusing on lost tales of Ohio including Geneva on the Lake: A brief History of Ohio’s First Resort, Legend and Lost Treasures of Ohio, Disaster of Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands, and Lake Erie: Murder and Mayhem. Book sales and signing to follow event. MUST REGISTER

Google Sheets – Adults
Friday, June 6 – 9:30 AM
Learn how to enter, modify and organize data using Google’s free web-based spreadsheet application. (Please note, a Google account is needed to participate in the class). MUST REGISTER

Ellenwood Book Discussion – Adults
Wednesday, June 11 – 2:00 PM
This book discussion is held on the second Wednesday of each month at 2:00 PM at Ellenwood Center. The Ellenwood Center is located at 124 Ellenwood Ave, Bedford, OH 44146. Copies of the books are available at both Ellenwood and the Bedford Library a month before the discussion date. June 11: The Fury by Alex Michaelides

Teen Wellness Wednesday (Yoga) – Teens (Grade 6–12)
Wednesday, June 11 – 6:00 PM
Join us for yoga with Little Zen Yoga! Yoga mats are provided. A release form must be signed by a parent/guardian prior to the event. Release forms are available here or at the reference desk. MUST REGISTER

Mobile Pantry – Free, fresh produce distribution
Wednesday, June 18 – 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Cuyahoga County Public Library is collaborating with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank to distribute free, fresh produce to those in need. First come, first-served basis, adults of any age, zip code, income level. Each vehicle can have up to 4 “families” (such as if single seniors are riding together). Vehicles are preferred over walk-ups, for safety reasons.

The African American Authors Book Group – In-Person or Virtual – All Adults Are Welcome
Thursday, June 26 – 7:00 PM
The African American Authors Book Group meets the last Thursday of the month. All Adults Are Welcome. June Title: In A League of Her Own: A Novel / Kaia Alderson. This historical fiction novel is based on the untold story of Effa Manley, a black businesswoman in the male dominated baseball industry in the 1930–1940s. Currently she is the only woman inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. She co-owned the Newark Eagles baseball franchise in the Negro leagues with her husband Abe Manley from 1935 to 1948.

The post Next Month in Bedford — June 2025 first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Rainwater Harvesting: Set up a rain barrel system to collect rainwater from your roof. This water can be used for irrigating your garden, conserving water, and reducing your water bill.
2. Composting: Begin a compost pile with yard waste and kitchen scraps. Composting enriches the soil, reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, and decreases methane emissions from landfills.
3. Native Plant Garden: Plant native species that are well-adapted to Bedford’s climate and soil conditions. Native plants require less water, fewer fertilizers, and provide essential habitat for local wildlife.
4. Pollinator Garden: Designate a section of your garden for pollinator-friendly plants such as milkweed, lavender, and bee balm. This supports the local bee and butterfly populations which are vital for pollination.
5. Organic Mulching: Use organic mulches like grass clippings, straw, or shredded leaves around plants. Mulching conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and adds organic matter to the soil as it decomposes.
6. Solar-Powered Garden Lights: Install solar-powered lights to illuminate pathways or highlight garden features. These lights are energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint.

By implementing these sustainable gardening tasks in May, Bedford gardeners can enjoy a lush, productive garden while contributing to environmental conservation. These projects not only make your garden more sustainable but also encourage a healthier local ecosystem.

The post Sustainable Gardening in May: Eco-Friendly Projects for Bedford Gardeners first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

May 5 | First Council Meeting of the Month

May 19 | Second Council Meeting of the Month

Library Events

Kids Café – Ages 18 & Under
Monday–Friday, 3:00PM – 4:00PM
Kids ages 18 and under can get a free lunch provided by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, while supplies last.

Student Success Center – Grades K–8
Monday–Thursday (school days), 4:00PM – 6:30PM
Since 2002, our free Student Success Center program has helped thousands of students in grades K–8 improve their grades and subject comprehension. Available at 10 branches. Homework help is offered in language arts, math, reading, science, and social studies. Must register.

Engineering Hour – Grades 1–5
Thursday, May 8 & 22, 3:30PM
Bring your creativity and dexterity for an hour of building!

Google Apps Basics – Adults
Friday, May 9, 10:00AM
Explore Google’s web-based apps: Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Organize files in the cloud using Google Drive.
Prerequisite: Computer Basics or equivalent experience. Preferred: Google account with password. Must register.

Bike Safety Fun – Grades K–5
Friday, May 9, 4:00PM
Receive a free helmet and learn bike safety from the experts at University Hospitals. Helmets available first come, first served while supplies last.

Self-Care Saturday – Grades 6–12
Saturday, May 10, 2:00PM
Ease your mind with calming activities including art, yoga, writing, and more.
A parent/guardian must complete a release form prior to participation. Must register.

Magic Tree House Mondays – Grades 2–4
Monday, May 12, 7:00PM
Explore Mary Pope Osborne’s classic series. May’s title: Mummies in the Morning. Whether you finished the book or not, join us for discussion and fun. Must register.

Who Were the Buffalo Soldiers? – All Ages
Tuesday, May 13, 7:00PM
Learn how the 9th and 10th Cavalry, known as the Buffalo Soldiers, helped expand the West and laid the foundation for the National Park Rangers after the Civil War.

Kindergarten Countdown – Children entering kindergarten & caregivers
Wednesday, May 14, 10:30AM
Build kindergarten readiness skills with a program aligned to Ohio’s Early Childhood Standards. Must register.

Ellenwood Book Discussion – Adults
Wednesday, May 14, 2:00PM
Held at Ellenwood Community Center, 124 Ellenwood Avenue. May’s title: The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat by Edward Kelsey Moore. Copies available one month in advance.

Black Barbie: Documentary Screening and Discussion – Adults
Monday, May 19, 6:00PM
This film traces the origin of the first Black Barbie doll and explores the impact of representation. Must register.

Mobile Pantry – All Adults Welcome
Wednesday, May 21, 1:30PM – 3:30PM
In partnership with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, free fresh produce will be distributed. First come, first served. Vehicles preferred for safety. Up to 4 “families” per vehicle allowed.

Mason Jar Luminaries – Adults
Saturday, May 24, 2:00PM
Transform Mason jars using stencils and faux etched glass paint. All materials provided. Must register.

African American Authors Book Group – Adults (In-person or virtual)
Thursday, May 29, 7:00PM
May’s title: Swift River by Essie Chambers. A multigenerational novel about identity, belonging, and uncovering family truths. Available in print, CD, eBook, and eAudio.

Preschool Prom – Preschoolers & Families
Saturday, May 31, 2:00PM
Join us for a fun afternoon with crafts, snacks, and music. Dressing up is encouraged. Don’t forget to sign up for Summer Reading! Must register.

The post Next Month in Bedford — May 2025 first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Plant Cool-Weather Crops: Early April is ideal for sowing seeds directly into the soil for vegetables like peas, radishes, carrots, and leafy greens. These crops can handle the still-cool nights.
2. Prepare Soil and Beds: Continue to prepare your garden beds. Remove any remaining winter debris, turn the soil, and enrich it with compost or well-rotted manure to boost nutrient content.
3. Prune and Clean: Prune spring-flowering shrubs and trees after they bloom to maintain their shape and health. Also, clean up around plants to reduce the risk of disease and pests.
4. Start Transplants: Begin to harden off seedlings started indoors so they can adjust to outdoor conditions. Gradually increase their exposure to sunlight and outdoor temperatures before planting them in the garden.
5. Lawn Care: Rake to remove thatch and aerate your lawn to improve water penetration. April is also a good time to overseed any bare patches.
6. Mulching: Apply mulch around trees, shrubs, and beds to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
7. Water Wisely: As the weather warms, begin a regular watering schedule, especially for newly planted seeds and seedlings that require consistent moisture to germinate and grow.

By diligently following these tasks, gardeners in Bedford can ensure their gardens are robust, healthy, and ready for the coming growth season. April’s efforts lay the groundwork for a lush and productive garden.

The post April Gardening Essentials: Cultivating a Thriving Garden in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Benefits of Wildflower Gardens

Wildflower gardens are low-maintenance and environmentally friendly. They require less water and fewer chemicals than traditional lawns, and they offer a natural, dynamic display throughout the seasons. By choosing native species, gardeners can ensure their gardens are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, further reducing the need for artificial supports.

Choosing the Right Wildflowers

Select native wildflowers for the best results. Species such as Black-eyed Susans, Ohio Spiderwort, and Purple Coneflower are excellent choices for Bedford. These plants are not only beautiful but are adapted to thrive in Ohio’s climate, making them easier to maintain.

Local Regulations to Consider

Before planting a wildflower garden, it’s crucial to review Bedford’s local ordinances regarding yard maintenance. Specifically, Bedford’s municipal codes require that gardens must not extend beyond the front building line of your house. Additionally, all gardens must be maintained in a manner that does not create a nuisance throughout the seasons. This includes avoiding the growth of tall grasses or noxious weeds that exceed five inches in height.

Bedford residents should be particularly mindful that wildflower gardens can grow tall, and tall grasses or weeds may violate the city’s regulations if they exceed five inches in height. The city requires that weeds and tall grasses be removed if they surpass this height, so it’s essential to monitor the growth of your wildflowers to avoid overgrowth.

If you’re unsure about any local rules, it’s best to contact Bedford’s Building Department or City Planning Office for precise information and to ensure your garden complies with city regulations. The Bedford Building Department can offer guidance on what’s acceptable in front yards and help you avoid potential issues. For gardening advice, including selecting the right plants, the Ohio State University Extension offers extensive resources. The Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio is also a great resource for those interested in native plants and wildflowers.

Getting Started

To begin, choose a sunny spot in your yard and prepare the soil by removing existing grass and weeds. Sow the seeds in early spring, just before the last frost. Keep in mind that wildflowers can take a few months to establish, so patience is key. Once established, these gardens require minimal upkeep, but you’ll need to keep an eye on their growth to ensure they do not exceed the city’s height restrictions for grasses and weeds.

Incorporating Wildflower Gardens in Bedford

Incorporating wildflower gardens in Bedford’s front yards not only beautifies the neighborhood but also plays a crucial role in sustaining the local ecosystem. It’s a delightful way to contribute to environmental conservation right from your own home, while ensuring your garden stays in compliance with Bedford’s regulations.

The post Embracing Nature: Planting Wildflower Gardens in Bedford Front Yards This Spring first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Clean Up: Start by clearing your garden beds. Remove any dead plants, leaves, and other debris that accumulated over the winter. This not only tidies up your garden but also prevents the spread of pests and diseases.
2. Soil Preparation: Test your soil for pH and nutrient levels, as winter can alter its composition. Amend the soil with compost or other organic material to improve its structure and fertility. Well-prepared soil is crucial for healthy plant growth.
3. Pruning: Early March is a good time to prune fruit trees, bushes, and perennial plants before they begin to bud. This promotes healthy growth and fruit production.
4. Plan Your Plantings: Finalize what plants you will grow this season. Consider crop rotation in vegetable gardens to maintain soil health and reduce pest issues.
5. Start Seeds Indoors: For plants with a longer growing season, start seeds indoors. This gives them a head start before transplanting outdoors after the last frost.
6. Tool Maintenance: Inspect and clean your gardening tools and equipment. Sharp and clean tools make garden work more efficient and safer.
7. Pest and Weed Control: Apply organic pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weeds. Check for signs of pest activity early to manage them before they become a bigger problem.

By tackling these tasks in March, Bedford gardeners can ensure their gardens are primed for planting and poised for a burst of spring growth. This early preparation lays the foundation for a flourishing garden that will bring joy throughout the growing season.

The post March Gardening Prep: Kickstarting Your Spring Garden in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

March 3 | First Council Meeting of the Month

March 17| Second Council Meeting of the Month

Library Events

KIDS CAFÉ – AGES 18 & YOUNGER
Monday-Friday, 3:00PM – 4:00PM
Kids ages 18 and under can get a FREE lunch provided by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, while supplies last.

STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER – GRADES K-8
Monday-Thursday (school days), 4:00PM – 6:30PM
Since 2002, our FREE Student Success Center program has helped thousands of students in grades K–8 improve their grades and subject comprehension. Students receive homework assistance from trained tutors in language arts, math, reading, science, and social studies.
MUST REGISTER

BABY CLUB – AGES BIRTH TO 35 MONTHS WITH CAREGIVER
Mondays, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 10:30AM
Join us for a five-week club for caregivers and children ages birth to 35 months. Connect with your kids and other families and get answers about your growing child. Siblings welcome.
MUST REGISTER

MUSIC & MOVEMENT STORYTIME
Tuesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25, 10:00AM
Join us for a fun, interactive storytime featuring music and movement.

FAMILY STORYTIME – ALL AGES WITH CAREGIVER
Tuesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25, 6:00PM
Join us for stories, songs, and fingerplays.

ENGINEERING HOUR – GRADES 1-5
Thursdays, March 6 & 20, 3:30PM
Bring your creativity and dexterity for an hour of building.

ART QUEST – GRADES 2-5
Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28, 4:00PM
Join library staff as we learn about famous artists and try our best at replicating their style.

INTRODUCTION TO HAND SEWING – ADULTS
Saturday, March 8, 11:00AM
Local costume designer Jaclyn Renee Vogel will teach you basic hand-sewing techniques. Students will be provided with a needle, thread, and fabric. Instructions will be 1 hour, with an additional 30 minutes for extra practice.
MUST REGISTER

MAGIC TREE HOUSE MONDAYS – GRADES 2-4
Monday, March 10, 7:00PM
Join us as we explore Mary Pope Osborne’s classic series.
Books Discussed:

• March 10 – Dinosaurs Before Dark
• April 14 – The Knight at Dawn
• May 12 – Mummies in the Morning

MUST REGISTER

KINDERGARTEN COUNTDOWN – CHILDREN ENTERING KINDERGARTEN NEXT FALL
Wednesday, March 12, 10:30AM
Help your child build kindergarten readiness skills in a program aligned with Ohio’s Early Childhood Standards.
MUST REGISTER

ELLENWOOD BOOK DISCUSSION – ADULTS
Wednesday, March 12, 2:00PM
Ellenwood Community Center, 124 Ellenwood Ave, Bedford
March Book: The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
Copies available at Bedford Branch and Ellenwood Center one month before the discussion.

KIDS COOK! – GRADES 3-6
Thursday, March 13, 4:00PM
Expand your cooking skills with quick, simple, and delicious recipes.
Registration opens February 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM
MUST REGISTER (A Release and Hold Harmless form is required.)

SELF-CARE SATURDAY – GRADES 6-12
Saturday, March 15, 2:00PM
Ease your mind with calming activities, including art, yoga, writing, and more.
MUST REGISTER (A parent/guardian release form is required.)

BEESWAX CANDLES – ADULTS
Saturday, March 22, 2:00PM
Learn how to make rolled beeswax candles and celebrate the return of Spring with light.
MUST REGISTER

POKÉMON TRAINING CAMP – GRADES 3-6
Monday-Wednesday, March 24, 25, 26, 6:30PM
Learn how to play the world-famous Pokémon Trading Card Game. Train for the Bedford Branch Tournament #1 on Thursday, March 27.
MUST REGISTER

POKÉMON TOURNAMENT #1 – GRADES 3-6
Thursday, March 27, 2:00PM
Compete in a friendly Pokémon Trading Card Game tournament. Bring your own deck or use one of ours.
MUST REGISTER

AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTHORS BOOK GROUP – ADULTS
Thursday, March 27, 7:00PM
In-Person & Virtual
March Title: Sisters With A Side of Greens by Michelle Stimpson
MUST REGISTER

EXCEL BASICS ★
Friday, March 28, 10:00AM
This session introduces spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. Topics include:

• Entering data
• Using autofill
• Performing calculations with formulas & functions

Earn a Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate upon successful assessment completion.
Prerequisite: Word Basics or prior Excel experience.
MUST REGISTER

The post Next Month in Bedford — March 2025 first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Seed Starting Preparation:

1. Gather Supplies: Collect seed trays or pots, high-quality seed starting mix, and seeds. Consider using a grow light and a heat mat to improve germination rates, particularly for plants like tomatoes and peppers that prefer warmth.
2. Plan Your Seeds: Determine what plants you want to grow, checking seed packets for the appropriate time to start each variety. Plants such as peppers and onions require a longer growth period before outdoor transplanting.
3. Sow Seeds: Follow the depth and spacing guidelines on the seed packets. Keep the soil moist and cover the containers with plastic wrap or a dome to maintain humidity until the seeds sprout.

Regrowing Kitchen Scraps Indoors:

1. Select Scraps: Use kitchen leftovers like the bottoms of green onions, bases of celery, and hearts of romaine lettuce. Place them in a shallow dish of water.
2. Provide Light and Water: Keep the scraps on a windowsill where they get plenty of light. Refresh the water every few days.
3. Transplant: After the scraps sprout roots and new growth, move them to pots with potting soil.

Forcing Bulbs Indoors:

1. Choose Suitable Bulbs: Select bulbs like amaryllis, paperwhites, or tulips that are specifically prepared for indoor forcing.
2. Planting: Plant the bulbs in pots with well-draining soil, leaving the tops exposed. Place them in a cool, dark area until roots develop, then move them to a bright spot.
3. Care and Bloom: Water sparingly until you see growth, then more regularly as the plant develops. Blooms typically appear in a few weeks, bringing a splash of color and fragrance indoors.

By incorporating these tasks into your February gardening routine in Bedford, you can enjoy the greenery indoors while preparing for a vibrant spring outdoors. Each activity not only enhances your living space but also keeps your gardening skills sharp during the winter months.

The post Indoor Gardening Delights for February in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Indoor Gardening Tasks:

Houseplant Care: With shorter days and less natural sunlight, ensure your houseplants receive adequate light. Rotate them regularly and consider using grow lights if necessary. Also, watch out for signs of overwatering, a common issue in winter.

Pest Prevention: Inspect your indoor plants for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Dry indoor air during winter often leads to increased pest activity. Treat infestations early with organic pest control methods.

Humidity Control: Use humidifiers or place water trays near heating systems to increase humidity levels around your plants, which prevents leaf tips from browning.

Outdoor Gardening Tasks:

Tool and Equipment Maintenance: Clean, sharpen, and repair garden tools and equipment. Organizing your garden shed can also make spring gardening more efficient and enjoyable.

Garden Planning: January is the perfect time to plan your garden layout and decide which seeds to order for the spring. Dreaming up new garden designs and browsing seed catalogs can be a wonderful way to spend winter evenings.

Wildlife Care: Keep bird feeders filled and provide water sources for wildlife. Birds can help control pests and add life to the winter garden.

While January may seem quiet for gardening in Bedford, it is a crucial month for indoor plant care and preparing for a successful spring season. By staying active with these tasks, gardeners can keep their green thumbs busy until the outdoor growing season resumes.

The post January Gardening: Nurturing Indoor Gardens and Planning for Spring in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.