While we are resurrecting old series, how about gardening! I loved how writing about my garden plans each month kept me "on track" all year in 2009. Last year I seemed to always be behind - which could have been from just avoiding the garden because of the drought.
I hope that writing about my garden plans each month is helpful to someone - but if not, my garden will benefit!
What is there to do in the garden in January? Not much if you live where I do! The ground is frozen solid, and to be honest, I'm enjoying the break. As much as I would love a year round harvest, I actually enjoy the change of seasons. Even my hoop house has petered out. I can still pick a leaf or two of lettuce for a sandwich but most of it is in no shape for a salad.
But January is an exciting month for me because of all the seed catalogs! I love drawing up a new garden plan, picking out new (and old) varieties to try, and dreaming of the perfect garden I'll have this year!
My January Plans
Reflect...on what did and did not work in the garden last year.
Learn...new solutions, tips, and techniques to try this year.
Plan...this year's dream garden.
Purchase...seeds. I like to get my mail order in early before the spring rush.
Read to Learn
I'm a huge proponent of reading. You can learn so much just by finding good resources. My companion right now is several seed catalogs which I pour over with a pen to circle everything that catches my eye. I also have several gardening books that I'm either reading or perusing in hopes to become a better gardener next year.
If you don't have some garden related reading material near by, it isn't hard to find. Seed companies appear to relish the opportunity to fill your mailbox with free catalogs, which not only sell seeds but also share garden information. Even our small town library has a great selection of gardening books. I'll share some of my favorite gardening books next week, but I'll mention a few favorite seed catalogs to get you started.
I should mention that I'm in the northeast US. I had never really thought about it, but Steve Solomon emphasizes the importance of purchasing seeds from a supplier located near you who has tested and trialed their seeds in your climate. I usually choose only one or two companies to order from each year to save shipping.
Some of the catalogs I'm enjoying this year are:
Stokes Seeds
Johnnies Selected Seeds
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
So, if your garden activity is limited this time of year, find a comfy chair and curl up with a stack of gardening reading. Spring will be here before you know it - but you'll be ready!
Related Links:
Before ordering from a new (to me) seed company, I like to check out their rating at the Garden Watch Dog.
If you are from the northwest, check out the favorite garden companies at Oregon Cottage.
Amy at Homestead Revival had a good list of things to consider when ordering seeds.
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