Tips and Tricks from The Optimistic Farmer
Winter Sowing
For the die hard gardener!
Ever wonder what to do with those empty gallon milk jugs (or similar containers), one use is for winter sowing containers. Simply add some holes to the bottom and cut nearly in half and you are set for getting on the winter sowing bandwagon.
Jugs are typically planted and set outside after the winter solstice, put in the seeds, label the jug, add the top and set outside. Keep the lid off the top so water can get in, you can duct tape the jug halves together or just tuck them together.
Pro Tip: label on the inside of the jug or write your seed name on metallic furnace tape and stick inside the jug!
It is amazing the success you can have winter sowing! The containers act as a mini greenhouse and when the time is right as the weather warms you will see germination and growth just in time for planting! In conclusion, it is pretty simple, just put in some wet soil, add seeds, label and then let nature do the work.
Fun Christmas Ornaments
Deck the halls!
You can have a lot of fun with those clear ornaments that you may find for sales in the months leading up to Christmas! You can use some of your garden harvest adding seeds, rose petals, eucalyptus, pine needles, dried peppers, or other dried flowers to these ornaments for a fun and unique ornament to add to your holiday decor. Add to your tree or several in a bowl for a cool winter centerpiece!
Gardening by Moon Phases
Who knew?
Well, who knew there is an age-old practice of planting by the phases of the moon?! Apparently, many farmers and gardeners know this and have been using this technique to enjoy a healthier and more productive garden. Much like it is believed the moon influences the tides, the phases of the moon will pull water to or from your seeds! The thought is as moisture is pulled to the surface it helps in the swelling and germination of the seeds.
Certain types of plants prefer to be sowed during the waxing phase (the period of the lunar cycle between the new moon and the full moon) and others prefer to be planted during the waning cycle of the moon (the period between the full moon and the new moon). There is plenty of information on the internet if you want to consider this further, below are a few quick bullet points from the link below.
Plant these during the waxing phase:
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Annual flowers
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Fruit and Vegetables that bear crops above ground
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Corn
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Tomatoes
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Watermelon
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Squash
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Plant these during the waning phase:
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Flowering bulbs
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Biennial and Perennial Flowers
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Fruit and Vegetables that bear crops below ground
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Onions
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Carrots
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Potatoes
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Managing Holiday Stress
Going with the flow....
The holidays can be stressful, so helpful tips on how to manage the stress can be key this time of the year.
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Know your triggers and minimize them
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Take a break, the holidays will be back next year
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Practice gratitude
