Garden resolution #2: Have a plan.
The avalanche of seed catalogs is well underway, and the gardener might be excused for feeling like ‘a kid in a candy store’–there are so many tempting choices! A little advance planning can help fend off overwhelm and buyer’s remorse.
Do a little reading, and learn about seeds/plants before you buy. Those catalog photos are alluring–but is it the right plant for the right place? Reputable seed companies will give a good description of the plant’s requirements, and these can be a good place to begin your research. Consider the conditions in your planting area–is your chosen plant likely to be happy there? You’ll enjoy more success (with less work) if you let the plant’s preferences be your guide.
Plan with pollinators in mind. In addition to appearance, what does each plant offer to native pollinators: Nectar?–pollen?–host plant? Also consider succession of bloom–pollinators need a continuous supply of food sources from early spring right through to frost.
With a little planning, your garden can offer a continuous show as well as a season-long pollinator buffet!
The avalanche of seed catalogs is well underway, and the gardener might be excused for feeling like ‘a kid in a candy store’–there are so many tempting choices! A little advance planning can help fend off overwhelm and buyer’s remorse.
Do a little reading, and learn about seeds/plants before you buy. Those catalog photos are alluring–but is it the right plant for the right place? Reputable seed companies will give a good description of the plant’s requirements, and these can be a good place to begin your research. Consider the conditions in your planting area–is your chosen plant likely to be happy there? You’ll enjoy more success (with less work) if you let the plant’s preferences be your guide.
Plan with pollinators in mind. In addition to appearance, what does each plant offer to native pollinators: Nectar?–pollen?–host plant? Also consider succession of bloom–pollinators need a continuous supply of food sources from early spring right through to frost.
With a little planning, your garden can offer a continuous show as well as a season-long pollinator buffet!
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