OH! The weather outside is frightful…
But the fire is so delightful! As you spend more time inside this winter, use the downtime to do some planning, improve your gardening knowledge, and learn new skills to put to use next year!
Plan next year’s garden. Many of us just put the garden to bed for the winter. But it’s never too early to think about next year’s garden! The more you plan now, the easier it will be to get a good start in the spring. Inventory your containers and plant beds for needed replacements and expansion for next year. Make plans, gather supplies, prepare to start plants, like tomatoes and onions, indoors. Clean and inspect your equipment, making repairs and replacements as needed. Inventory your seeds; make a list of your planting intentions. Research garden seed companies for varieties well suited to your growing region; list and winnow the varieties you would like to try in your garden next year. Create your garden calendar, plot your crop rotation, and map your garden plots.
Improve your skills! Take a gardening course through your extension service or sustainable agriculture organization. Visit your local library or independent book seller and browse books on gardening topics of interest. Not in the mood to read or sit in a classroom? Visit a neighbor or friend who shares a passion for gardening and swap tips and plans for the upcoming growing season over a slice of Uncle David's Dakota Dessert squash bread (see recipe below) and a cup of organic coffee.
Schedule a gardening party and plant container gardens! Plants like mini peppers, determinant cherry tomato varieties, green onions, radishes, herbs and garlic all thrive indoors with the proper lighting, soil depth, watering and temperature. With a little research, a sunny space and minimal care, you’ll enjoy fresh produce in the dead of winter.
Now your ready to take advantage of off-season pricing and specials throughout the winter to replenish your seed stocks, equipment, and supplies!
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