Yes, the title seems obvious. Of course we’ll have a new garden this year. But my game plan has changed.
Last year we were plagued with more problems than I care to count–new insects/pests, extreme heat, deer and squirrels, blossom-end rot, and the list goes on and on and on…
What’s new this year:
I’ve changed the focus from how to get rid of and/or prevent pests and diseases. That will still be a crucial part of our planning and maintenance (going to try interplanting & beneficial nematodes – more on that later), but we’re going to pay more attention to the soil.
We have a good start with our new compost bin. It’s filled with leaves and food scraps and seems to be working like magic. Also, our beds are filled with shredded–and now decomposing– leaves that will be worked in to the soil when it’s warmer.
I’m also researching what nutrients each plant needs and trying to learn more about the ideal growth conditions (I spend a lot of time reading about gardens lately). Our first step this spring will be to remove the weed barriers we put down a few years ago. The roots of most of the vegetables can’t get deep enough to thrive.
We’ve also discovered Worm’s Way, a fabulous garden supply store in Northern Kentucky. It’s where we bought our compost bin (had a coupon), and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable and full of advice for novices like us.
So wish us luck, and here’s to a good gardening season!
Great ideas! We had an infestation of mosquitos and I will have to consider that in my planning! Might not have thought of that if I hadn’t read this, thanks! http://www.theUNgardener.wordpress.com
You’re welcome!
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