1st Garden Report

Gardening season has begun! The first item of business in my make-shift raised beds was to remove the weed barrier. (Who in their right mind builds a vegetable garden over weed barrier?!) I'll give you two guesses on this rats nest of roots... or I'll just tell you: Field bindweed (morning glory)! My Weeds of the West books states: "Field bindweed is a perennial from an extensive root system, often climbing or forming dense tangled mats. It is a difficult weed to eradicate because of a root system that can penetrate the soil to a depth of 20 feet." Well I'll say. No wonder that clump had been haunting me.

Most of the soil in these raised beds was topsoil so it's already pretty dark and loose. I turned in some composted steer manure for added fertility. And I just have to say I am the IFA's newest fan. They have everything you need at steal-of-a-deal prices! Plus my kids loved petting the baby chicks.

Maddie helped me add three new strawberry plants to the one we inherited from Mike's Grandma Johnson. We are so excited that one already has 3 or 4 baby berries on it!

Last week I planted my carrot and beet seeds, and peas are going in tomorrow. (In my zone, this is also a good time to plant onions, radishes, and lettuces.) Now it's time to turn on the irrigation and watch in great suspense for germination! I have such high hopes... please grow little plants!

I also wanted to show you this cool garden journal. My Dad's mom was an avid gardener and her daughter gave her this book one year for Christmas. When she passed away my mom selected it from her belongings and saved it. 16 years after the original gift was given, I opened it last Christmas morning from my parents. I think it is so special!


It's a really good idea to write down what you do and when you do it for reference next year!