Happy New Year! Wherever you are, whatever your circumstances, may the coming year bring you many joyful moments. Of course I hope some of those happy times take place in and around gardens. To help you make this come true I’ve collected a few ideas to get you out of your comfort zone and into something new.
Re-Think Your Garden
Spring is the perfect time to make changes. Some time in the next week or two, when the weather is mild, get outside and spend a few moments really looking at your garden beds and containers. Take a pen and notepad to keep track of your ideas.
- Are some of your plots overgrown? Shrubs that are too big can prevent neighboring plants from getting the sun and water they need.
- Winter weather can kill tender plants. Do you have empty spots that are begging to be filled? Try growing a native plant from your area to reduce the risk of plant death.
- Is your garden too big for you to keep tidy with the time you have available? Maybe this is the year to cut back on what you have growing.
- Perhaps you want to really change things up and put in a water feature, or a moon garden, or an all-native bed.
Try a New Plant
Even as I write this there are seed catalogs being sent out with this year’s new varieties of herbs, vegetables, and flowers. Your local nurseries will also be showcasing new items for you to try. Don’t pick the same old thing this year. Try something new. You may be about to discover your next favorite plant.
Visit a Public Garden
Most of us live within easy driving distance of a public garden. Take advantage of your tax dollars at work and spend some time there. Many public gardens have festivals, music events, and plant sales open to the public. Check out their websites and mark your calendar for some good, clean fun. Don’t forget the public gardens when you travel, whether for business or pleasure. There are some outstanding gardens in this country just waiting for you to see. Check out the American Public Garden Association for places to visit.
Join the Club…or Maybe a Podcast
You are not alone in your love of gardening. There are many garden clubs that would love to include you in their ranks. Contact the National Garden Clubs, the Herb Society of America, or the American Horticultural Society, just to name a few.
Of course it can be hard to get together live. If that’s what you are facing, look for an interesting podcast. Just google “garden podcast” to be connected to hundreds of podcasts.
Dig a Little Deeper
If you know me, you know I’m never satisfied knowing the simple answer to a question. I want to know the “how” and “why” of just about everything I discover. Take the time this year to do a little digging of your own – metaphorically speaking. Find out how compost is made, or where your favorite plants come from, or what happens when a seed germinates, or….well, you get the idea.
Get out there and be creative! There is a world of fascinating information out there just waiting to be discovered.
0 Comments