Setting the Stage for Your Spring Success
Before you reach for your trowel, remember that a lush, vibrant garden is built from the ground up. As Spring approaches let’s talk about a few things that happened this winter:
Cold temperatures slow biological activity, which can lead to a boom in nutrient mineralization at the start of spring.
Rain and snow can wash the nutrients deeper or out the soil, especially nitrogen.
Wet and trampled soil may have led to compaction, which means less oxygen for roots.
Your farmers have five critical steps to revitalize your soil’s structure for a season of abundance.
Don’t be scared, be prepared. Start by clearing away any weeds, old roots, and leftover plants from the past season. As temperatures warm up, pests and pathogens can re-emerge, right as your seedlings are trying to establish themselves.
Loosen the top 6–8 inches of your soil so roots can easily spread and thrive.
Feed your soil. Adding organic material to your soil will help rebuild the soil structure for a successful season. Add rich compost and worm castings so your seedlings can vigorously establish themselves.
Plan. Start by mapping your space to match the specific sunlight needs of your plants ensuring crops like tomatoes get full-sun. Consider balancing high-yield staples with unique conversation starters, such as Electric Daisy to keep your harvest interesting. Imagine the mature size of each plant during the planning phase so you can provide enough airflow, which naturally discourages pests and disease.
Finally, source high quality seeds and local seedlings that are designed to thrive in your environment.
