Spring 2012

First thing is I've changed the name of the blog since my urban blogging colleagues got too busy having babies and designing houses to blog.

Second, I apologize to myself for not keeping the garden blog up to date. This is primarily my own record of gardening progress through the years.

Finally, to anyone who actually reads this—welcome to season 5 of my young career as an old gardener.

We started the year off with a workshop I conducted under the auspices of our local Grange on how to make potting soil, bokashi, fertilizer and compost teas. I learned all of the above at workshops led by Steve Diver one of the most eclectic gardeners you will meet. If you ever have a chance to spend some time with him please take advantage of the opportunity.

I continue to monitor Steve Solomon's Soil and Health Yahoo Group daily and have added BD Now to my daily routine. Have been watching a DVD on biodynamics by Hugh Lovel who is a very interesting and knowledgeable gardener. I'm still participating in Michael Astera's Nurtrient Dense Project. Trying to get tuned up on soil science as I am scheduled to make a presentation on soil testing to our Island Gardener's Network in April.

Have started some plants indoors (peas, artichokes, tomatoes, peppers, basil). I built a grow light frame last year to hold a six tube flourescent light fixture which adjustible levels. This year I added a piece of hard insulation and a heat mat that is large enough to fit under the entire unit which is big enough for four trays.

Today I transplanted peas with help from grandson and neices and nephews. I plant them inside what we call The Peahouse of the August Moon, a framework that provides fishnet support for their climb and makes it difficult to harvest the crop. However, it's necessary because of the problem I have with rabbits. After this photo was taken I wrapped the outside with row cover material, tied it with string and rope and pinned it to the groud to try and discourage the beasties. I also put a plastic cup around each plant to keep the cutworms at bay. Between the cutworms and rabbits we had no peas last year so I am going overboard.

Finally, we are fencing in our front yard, potentially the best garden spot on the property with what may be the most expensive fence on the island. Photos to follow at some point.

Comments

[Sarah]

hooray, no more guilt over failing to blog!

[vente lunettes de soleil]

Home-grown vegetais é fresco

[Jacob]

Good idea. Plants really needs to be fenced because it is vulnerable to insects, pest and animals. Nice work

[Lighted Ice Cubes]

Hi, I have an area just like that myself. One thing that I am going to try is to elevate the soil where I want to plant and then divert the water somewhat. One simple but effective method is to put in a small French drain to divert the water.