How-To: Getting Started in Gardening

We have had a small, backyard garden for many years. . .it always starts off strong, but somewhere in July, amidst the bugs and the heat. . .it loses it's appeal. And don't even get me started on my battle with the groundhogs. . .

This year, I decided we would start things a little differently. Instead of planting our lettuce out in the garden box, I'd put the seeds in a planter close to the house (and hopefully away from the groundhogs). While we were at it, I picked up some herb seeds to plant this year as well.

On a recently warm day (there have not been too many yet - it's frustrating) I got my helpers,  gathered up our supplies and we got our garden started.

I used a long planter for our lettuce, and decided to use a cardboard egg carton to start herb seeds. The kids helped me turn some Popsicle sticks into plant markers so we would know what was sprouting.

We filled the containers with potting soil, designed for potted plants and container gardens. We made little divots for the seeds, and sprinkled them in.

Cover the seeds with a little dirt. Push in the plant markers (I cut the herb ones down to size). Sprinkle the plants with a bit of water.

Now we wait for the first sprouts. . .I plan to keep the lettuce in this planter near the house, and transplant the herbs from the egg carton to my herb planter, also on my patio near the house. I am contemplating peas in a large round pot - anyone have success with that to share?

catch you soon -