Post(Workshop) Script(s)
Yet again – we gathered April 24th out in Spafford to share seed-starting strategies and schedules, for inside starts and direct seeding outside. The Clarkes hosted us graciously! Carrots were the sticking point: they need really refined soil to grow well – not the heavy rocky stuff most of us have out back. So put those carrot seeds in your best garden spot after you’ve taken out all the weeds and weed roots. As we talked about what can safely go out before June 1st, we noted that some gardens at higher elevations were a couple weeks behind. A good clue is to watch how things are blooming. If your forsythia come out earlier than in surrounding areas, you might be tempted to put your vegetables out a little earlier – with an eagle eye on the weather reports and strategies for protection (cardboard boxes, blankets, row cover…). Yet again, an inspiring and informative time together, with almost an entirely different group of people from our last couple of gatherings. This is exciting to reach so many people!
Another thank you all for another great workshop on managing wildlife pests in the garden. On April 18, 2010 we had a retired DEC wildlife management expert advise us. He recommended that we look at habitat. If something likes the habitat of our gardens, change that habitat to be less attractive! Let’s study up on what those bunnies, groundhogs, deer, voles, and squirrels don’t like.
AND
Thank you to all who attended the March 7, 2010 gathering. We sure shared lots of information, ideas, and food! And,who knew that we all have to be so BRAVE to garden. Well, brave friends, let’s meet again to talk with courage about how to keep wildlife pests out of our gardens: Sunday, April 18, 2:00 at Applegate’s. Bring your experience, research, questions, and friends. Email me (eanorris@syr.edu) or Chris (ninibob@frontiernet.net) for directions.
A question arose about the safety of compost tea. Barbara Pleasant addresses it in her new composting book. I wonder if that has sufficient information for you?
A few people are looking into buying a big roll of plastic to cover our garden hoops. If you’re interested too, let me know.
After chatting with some of you, I wonder if there is interest in a small seed-starting workshop very soon too. I’d be glad to share my strategies and schedules, as might others. Let me know asap since we’re pushing into the big seed-starting time now.
And, as we plant our seeds and perhaps find extras in our stashes, remember that we have a ‘give and take’ spot on our ‘garden chat’ blog.
We also mentioned doing another workshop after the wildlife one before our gardens swallow up our days. Is anyone interested in talking about soils – how to keep them fertile and balanced? Or something more on composting?
With respect to local foods – which include our garden produce and herbs – perhaps we could keep track of recipes that come mostly from our area’s produce and collate them later in the year to share? I have found that using local dairy and eggs and sweeteners (honey, maple syrup, fruits) really expands my local recipe collection.
Good to see you again and to meet new people. What a joy to collaborate with you all!
Yours,
elaine
Homer Community Gardens 