Healthy Garden

Here are some key steps in having a healthy garden.  First of all in the fall the soil must be prepared for the winter sleep.  Compost should be put on the beds and black plastic placed over it so it cooks the weed seeds all winter long.  In the spring the soil needs to be tilled up, then the garden is ready for planting.

Weeding needs to be done on a very regular basis.  Try not to let the weeds get more than an inch or two tall.  Their roots are usually quite shallow which makes it easier in weeding.

Another way to keep the plants healthy is to mulch with straw this help to eliminate so much watering and the straw holds in the moisture.  Fertilizing the plants every two weeks is also very helpful.  Check your soil for nutrient value.  Watch the appearance of the plants as they begin to mature.  Be watchful for insects that will eat your plants as well and lay eggs, also watch for plant disease. 

The most exciting part about gardening is to see those little flowers forming because you know fruit will follow close behind then the fun really begins picking all the produce and enjoy eating and sharing with your neighbors is so very rewarding. 

Flower garden soil is easier to prepare especially if you have prenniels just cut down the old flower stocks and then mulch the soil for the winter sleep.  It is also fun to leave the seed head stocks there for the birds winter feast. Gardening is very rewarding for the eyes as well as the helping the neighbors with their supply for fresh produce.