We have several days of incoming freezing rain. The homestead, and its gardens are currently covered in several inches in snow! I sigh, thinking and dreaming of the gardening days that are coming! Oh, the days to plant seeds, having sweaty brows and watching beautiful things grow!
These are the days I am dreaming of! I wonder are you dreaming of them too? What might you be excited about growing or producing this year?
Last year being the first official growing season here on our new 40-acre property brought a whole list of projects and goals. Not only did we put one garden in, but we did two!
We tilled in a massive 80x40ft traditional garden down in the valley! It ended up being the deer buffet dinner! We have some interesting ideas coming on how to deter them!
There is still a mountain of things we are wanting to get done when it comes to gardening this year. One of those being another greenhouse!
How to Plan Your Garden
There is nothing quite like the rewarding feeling of starting your own garden from seeds. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, this fulfilling experience is accessible to everyone. There are a few helpful tips to keep in mind as you begin your journey.
First and foremost, it is essential to choose the correct seeds for your specific location and climate. Your location is broken up into different growing zones. You can find extra information about zone planting on your seed package. It is important to note that some seeds require ample sunlight and space to grow, while others can thrive in smaller containers. Once you have decided on your desired seeds, it’s time to start planting. You need to know when your last frost date is and if you will be direct sowing or starting your little seedlings indoors. If you have a greenhouse this can help you extend your growing season and start plants sooner!
You will require several supplies, including soil, water, and a container. Be sure to review the instructions on the seed packet and provide your seeds with adequate warmth and water to ensure optimal germination. You can plant in almost anything. The important thing is drainage! We’ve started seedlings by simply using red solo cups and some people have even reused yogurt cups. Talk about cheap and easy!
As your garden grows and buds begin to bloom, it is important to give your plants the attention and care they need. Ensure that they receive proper watering, pruning, and protection from pests and diseases. Each garden can look different in this season. It’s important to know what kind of fertilizer you want to use and if you want to keep your garden strictly organic or use spray pest control. We’ve found that companion planting helps deter the unwanted garden pests.
When planning your garden, not only do you want to be sure to follow the seed pack instructions, but you also want to design what your garden looks like before you start planting. This design is of the herb garden behind the house. It was my major project last year.
When looking at your seed packet you’ll find the different spacing requirements for each plant. This information helps you understand the spacing you’ll need to accommodate for in your gardening plan.
There are tons of different garden styles from traditional in-ground gardening, raised beds, containers, hugelkultur, vertical, no dig and many others! Research each one and do what works best for you!
Our Recommendations!
Seed Companies We Recommend:
Mary’s Heirloom Seeds
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
MIgardener
True Leaf Market
Hoss Tools
Tool Companies & Other Resources:
Greenhouse Megastore
Bootstrap Farmer
Amazon Affiliate link for different gardening products!
Ultimately, sit back and enjoy all your hard work. Harvest your plants when ready and savor their delicious taste in your favorite recipes or share with others who enjoy the fruits of your labor. Above everything else, remember that gardening is a fantastic way to connect with nature while improving your well-being.
Praying you have a beautiful gardening season! That you try growing all the things! That you find joy and God in your garden, just as I have! Start small and watch your garden reach new heights!
“Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.” – Genesis 1:11-13
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