Why plan your garden?
So many people just wing it and then are disappointed when things don't end up how they hoped!
Let me give you just a few reasons why planning is good - some you know and some you might not have thought about!
Optimal Space Utilization Planning helps maximize the use of available space, ensuring efficient placement of plants for growth and productivity. Example: I like to stagger plant carrots and onions together as carrots grow deeply but onion roots are shallow. 🥕 🌰
Sunlight and Soil Conditions Strategic planning considers sunlight exposure and soil quality, allowing plants to thrive in their ideal environment. Example: flowers like cosmos and morning glories want terrible soil and won't perform as well if in enriched soil.
Crop Rotation Although backyard gardeners don't need to rotate crops, planning prevents soil depletion and enhances long-term soil health. Example: beans and corn nees lots of nitrogen so a bed that's frequently use may need frequent refreshes of compost. 🫘 🌽
Water Efficiency Proper garden planning facilitates efficient watering systems, reducing water waste and promoting sustainability. Example: tomatoes and peppers don't want as much water as melons or beans. 💧 🍅 🌶
Pest Management A well-thought-out garden plan includes pest-resistant plant pairings and preventive measures, minimizing the risk of infestations. Example: pest insects are often repelled by plants with strong odors like herbs. Beneficial insects are drawn in with bright colors and pollen rich flowers. Trap crops can also be planted to lure bad bugs away from the produce. Planting several different patches of the same crop in a variety of area means if one patch is attacked, the others aren’t at risk. 🐛 🪲 🐞 🐁 🐈 🐕 🦌
Aesthetic Appeal Planning helps create visually pleasing arrangements, enhancing the overall beauty and enjoyment of your garden. Example: well placed shrub hedges can conceal a veggie garden. Some veggies of a variety of colors can be planted together to be pleasing to the eye as well as the palate. 😍
Seasonal Variety Strategic planning allows for a diverse range of plants, ensuring your garden remains vibrant and attractive throughout different seasons. Example: some varieties grow quicker than others. Gardens I design have four seasons interest. 🔎
Time Management With a plan in place, you can better organize your gardening tasks, making it easier to manage your time effectively. Example: 5-10 minutes spent daily can be better than a whole weekend day. ⏰️
Harvest Optimization Planning ensures staggered planting, leading to a more extended harvest period and a continuous supply of fresh produce. Example: weekly sowing is common for salads and greens to get the freshest plants possible. 🪴
Educational Experience Engaging in the planning process provides valuable insights into plant requirements, gardening techniques, and overall horticultural knowledge. Example: when I coach you, you learn more than the what to do, you learn the why behind it.
Email me today for my free Planning Guide! Or for help in planning!
thelazynortherngardener@yahoo.com
Happy 2024!