Even though it’s only February, I am seriously getting the itch to start planning out my garden. This will be the first year in a while since I’ve had one. I was too sick when I was pregnant with Claire and she arrived at the end of April, so tending to a garden that year was NOT an option. Last Spring she was keeping me too busy with her exploring and walking skills to attempt any outdoor projects. In a few weeks she will be two (WHAT? Did I just say that?!) so my hope is she’ll be right along side me digging and watering.
I have grand plans of making raised beds this year. I hear they make the process of weed control easier and allow for more suitable dirt for planting. True? I hope so because that is the path I am going down. After researching and reading I think I have a pretty good idea of how to build them.
Now all I need is a plan. What to plant and when. Do you know what your hardiness zone is? Find it here if you live in the USA. Not in the states? How about Europe, Canada or Australia? We live in Zone 6A and The Old Farmer’s Almanac has an online guide for your exact local. Just type in your zip code and it generates a detailed list for planting.
Sprout Robot also looks interesting. Based on the same concept as the Almanac you enter your zip code, but this one goes into great detail of starting your seeds indoor vs. straight into the ground for planting. The easy to follow week by week breakdowns are helpful for planning ahead. Between both resources I should be able to get a pretty good idea of what I will be planting for seedlings and what will go right into the ground.
Do you think I should start seedlings indoors? I’d like to so I can get the maximum growing time for the season. Unfortunately I have tried this in the past with not much success. We have limited natural light inside and it will require me to have them in my bedroom window for the best sun. Got any better ideas for me? I don’t want to invest in a lighted contraption, but would love to have an edge to get my garden growing. I’d rather not buy young plants at the local hardware store or garden center for planting, but I may have to resort to them once again.
Will you have a garden this year? When do you start planning and planting? Any tips to help in the process? I’ll make sure to keep everyone updated on my progress from the planning, building and planting as I go along over the weeks ahead.
Have a great day!
Live Well
photos via PotteryBarn, Almanac
Sounds like fun! I wish I could do a garden, but I don’t really have a great spot for it yet. Are you growing tomatoes? Those are my favorite. And last night I dreamt about basil and rosemary.
What about the spot where the pool used to be? It gets great sun all day.
I’l still grow some tomatoes for you anyway…no worries! xo
The deer! I’d have to put up a chain link fence. But yes, that’s my best spot. Well, I’d have to get some water down there too. I guess a long hose would work.
Every year we grow tomatoes cucumbers squash and red peppers. (Cucumbers were delicious in green juice) I start them in the house in the middle of March. Last Year we did Green Beans too and they just grew NON STOP. This year we won’t be ale to do it with moving, but there are enough farms where we are moving to so I don’t have to worry about it. Good Luck! Can’t wait hear what you planted.