Published March 9, 2022
Marching into gardening season
Heads up! This article was published 2 years ago.
While you may be itching to get in the garden, there’s still a ways to go before planting many flowers and produce varieties for the year. MetroParks education coordinator Betty Hoevel suggests gardeners focus their time on the following to set yourself up for gardening success during the growing season.
“April will come quickly and there won’t be enough time to do everything before the season starts,” said Hoevel. “Rather than waiting, get as much accomplished as you can now so you aren’t overwhelmed when spring hits.”
GARDENING VEGGIES
Starting seeds: Those who want to plant from seeds, rather than starts, should begin by shopping for seeds, as the most popular and unique varieties will sell out quickly. Get your seed starting equipment ready (such as trays, soil, and tags) and then start your seeds indoors to be planted in your garden according to the Zone 6 planting guide. Cool weather seeds can be started outdoors as appropriate.
Get your gardening gear ready: Be sure you have all your containers and tools ready. Empty last year’s containers and fill them with new soil for the upcoming year.
Learn something new: Come up with a gardening plan, which includes design. You can do this through online research or taking Five River MetroParks’ gardening programs. You can also find helpful tips at the library, blogs, newsletters and connect with peers on Facebook groups.
PERENNIAL AND ANNUAL FLOWERS
Seeds and bulbs: As with seeds to grow veggies, the flower section thins out the closer you get to planting time. Be sure to order all the spring-planted bulbs and perennials on your list. You can pot up spring/tender bulbs so you can get a jump on the planting season. In fact, tender bulbs planted in soil that’s too cold will rot, so get them started early indoors to plant outdoors in May.
Make a plan and gather materials: If you don’t have a gardening plan for this year, now is the time to make one or make adjustments. For larger landscaping projects, you may want to consult a contractor and landscaping company. Smaller projects you can take on yourself will require the purchase of all the necessary materials for the project.
Now is also the time to purchase items such as mulch and gardening tools you may not have or need to replace.
Start composting: Composting is a great way to cut down on your food waste and feed your garden. Learn how to start composting by checking out this nature is open blog.
Keep an eye out: As perennials emerge, you can decide which ones to divide and/or move.
Get inspired: Feeling a bit bored with your set-up? Take a walk around one of MetroParks’ garden parks, such as Aullwood Garden, Wegerzyn Gardens or even gardens in your neighborhood. You can also build your knowledge by taking MetroParks’ gardening programs.
Stay up-to-date with MetroParks gardening news, get tips, recipes and more by signing up for its gardening email newsletter and by following the MetroParks Earth to Table Facebook page.
