1-06-06 New Year’s Resolutions

In This Issue:

  1. Turning over a new leaf
  2. Ring in the New Year in Style
  3. Gardenerd Tip of the month: Seed-starting

1. Turning over a new leaf

This is the inevitable time of year when we reflect back on our successes and shortcomings of 2005 and make heartfelt (or half-baked) promises to do better in 2006.  My New Year’s celebration was one of a reflective nature consisting of a warm fire, a glass of wine and good company.  We talked about what went right in 2005, and what we hope to accomplish or see happen, by miracle or muscle, in 2006.

This year it is one of my intentions to enjoy the time spent in the garden more thoroughly.  Rather than focusing on what needs to be done, or what isn’t getting done, I want to enjoy being there: feeling the soil in my hands, smelling the fragrance of the garden after a rainfall, experiencing the season as it changes.  I hope you will join me in lingering joyfully in the garden this year.  Let’s make it one to remember.


2. Ring in the New Year in Style

You may have noticed that the weather has turned a little chillier (yes, even if you live in sunny California).  It’s time to pull out the sweatshirts and gloves, scarves and dare I say – rain gear.  You’ll want to keep warm in the garden too.  Now is your chance to save some cash on the Gardenerd Sweatshirt, which is on sale at CafePress.com through January 9th.  Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of fine Gardenerd fashion that will give you the “warm fuzzies” all season long.

LINK: Gardenerd Store


3. Gardenerd Tip of the month: Seed-starting

I’ll confess.  When it comes to starting seeds at home, I’m a chicken.  Conversely, I have no issue direct-seeding every kind of plant known to humans in my garden.  I mockingly laugh at the package when I read, “plant 6-8 weeks ahead indoors”, as I drop broccoli seeds in the soil.  The truth is that I have a dream of owning a greenhouse with high-tech lighting fixtures and warming mats and all the accoutrements of someone who knows what she’s doing.  The reality is that I’ve only gotten as far as buying the seed trays.  I’m embarrassed to say that they’re still in the package.  Do I hear a New Year’s resolution coming on?

Well, maybe not, but I hope to attempt starting seeds from home this year.  If you are planning to do the same, here is a helpful website to coach along even the most hesitant gardener.  Click on Seed-starting at the top, upper left-hand corner of the page and you will find a plethora of information about how to get started, as well as quite probably the best products for seed starting around.  Be sure to click on “related articles” at the bottom of the seed-starting page for great tips to help you along the way.  Enjoy.

Link: http://www.gardeners.com


Stay tuned for more tips and tidbits from the Gardenerd.  Happy Gardening!