For all of us wannabe gardeners, we are itching to get our hands in the dirt. However, here in the Midwest, it is much too cold for that. Yes, bulbs are peeking up through the ground and some crocus may even be in bloom, but it is way too soon to think about planting.Old wives tales tell us that the frost has to be out of the ground in order to plant...that means a ground temperature of at least 45 degrees.
If you are a vegetable gardener, start most of your seedlings inside, or purchase from the local garden center. But again, wait until the ground is warm enough so as to not shock the plants. Plant peas near carrots, and cucumbers but NOT near potatoes. And, plant potatoes away from pumpkins, squash, and tomatoes.
My fascination the past few years has been coleus. With over 45 varieties of this plant, there is one that will strike anyone's fancy. Last year I planted dark purple and lime green coleus with orange geraniums. The year before, it was a burst of yellow marigolds, hot pink impatiens, and lime green sweet potato vine. 
All photos from personal collection.
Love your pics!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Another one of my loves is photography.
DeleteI had a garden years ago than I switched to planting in pots. Now, I buy instead of plant. But there is nothing like fresh veggies. Gorgeous pictures Grace!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Jennifer. Container planting is wonderful and so much easier than getting down on the ground, even thought I'd love to still be able to do that.
DeleteI admire your ambition, Grace. How do you garden and get your writing done?
ReplyDeleteWhen there are containers planted, which usually happens on Mother's Day weekend, it takes little time at all...watering and watching them grow. Then during breaks (every 45 min. I get up and walk around to prevent DVTs) if the flowers are ones that need dead-heading, I do that. Otherwise, I choose plants that take care of themselves...and ones the deer don't bother. lol
ReplyDeleteOh, I love to get my hands dirty in the garden! Only a few things are better than touring the yard in April and seeing the first bit of green...but I also love the pots. Lol
ReplyDeleteI've recently started putting herbs too.
Thanks for this bit of spring, grace. So very needed. ��
I'm ready for spring. I hope we don't go from winter to summer as in past years. Thank you for your comment.
ReplyDeleteI do most of my planting in raised beds and pots. Seems much easier to keep up with and added bene, I can move them around. Thanks, Grace. I'm so ready for spring.
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