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| This year's garden produced a lot of tomotoes. |
As an educator, I always reflected on curriculum programs throughout implementation. Then prior to implementing the program again, I would read those old posts, make needed adjustments, and go forward with the next iteration of the program. I plan to do the same with my garden, hence today's reflection of the garden efforts this year.
Seedlings
I started my seedlings a bit too late. Next year I want to order the seeds earlier and start my seedlings indoors in mid-to-late February. I will research grow lights and other indoor gardening tools in the winter months.
Garden plot
The garden plot was too small, but placed well. Next year I'll double the size. In early spring, I'll rent a rotatiller to loosen the soil. Then I'll add soil from our compost, and I may buy a bit of good soil too to make a very fertile plot.
When planting, I'll be more careful about spacing since this year's garden is too densely packed. I'll grow about the same amount of tomatoes, but increase beans and cucumbers. I'll try to do a better job with peppers, melons, and squashes too. The marigold border was perfect and I'll do that again. And, as noted in my previous post, I'll plant good greens, herbs, and strawberries in containers on the porch.
I'll also purchase a number of tomato cages since this year the tomato plants are slumped over which is limiting the crop.
Fencing
As a winter project, I'll research and make better fencing for the garden--this year's fencing was too short in general.
Weeding
Using hay between the plants helped a lot when it came to weeds. I'll do that again.
Compost
We updated our compost somewhat, but we've got more to do this fall to protect our soil from rolling down the hill.
Flowers
I want to plant more flowers as I love to be able to pick beautiful flowers to share with friends and brighten up my own home.
It is a joy to have a backyard garden--I love the creativity involved.