It’s Time to Get Busy: Prepare for a Warm Growing Season!

A small friend-sized portion of Pat and Walt’s 1 week harvest. I’m eating the greens, but stop in for the rabbit pellets, non-toxic pesticide and gardening tools.

Y'all! This weather! Break out your big hats and sunscreen.

It’s been an unseasonably warm this February. I mean Spring has  Sprung. But it looks like it's going to keep yo-yo'ing up and down for at least the next week And though I would definitely welcome another month of open windows and no AC, I’m embracing the opportunity to get a head start on my garden.

With these mild temperatures, I’ve already begun planting seeds and planning new additions for the season. This year, I’m particularly excited to try a new variety of dwarf branching sunflower called **Solsation Flame** (expect them in May). Their miniature size, think under 3 feet, and fiery blooms promise to add a stunning pop of color to the garden while attracting pollinators.  

I’m also experimenting with new varieties of spinach—some for salads and others as ground cover-all edible. With such an early warm-up, I’m hoping for lush, vibrant growth before the summer heat settles in. It's my goal this year to grow at least a third of what I eat. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching tiny seedlings push through the soil, knowing that in a few months, they’ll be thriving.

While I’m just getting started, my good friends, Pat and Walt,  are already way ahead of me. They’ve managed to leapfrog my progress, harvesting an incredible bounty of greens, cabbage, broccoli, and more. They were kind enough to share some of their fresh-picked produce with me, and I have to say—it’s inspiring to see what’s possible with a little planning and dedication.  Below is  a snapshot of a small portion of their beautiful harvest. I mean this produce is so beautiful, I checked for stickers. Ha, Ha, no really, I've seen their garden many times and it's amazing.

As we ease into this unexpected early spring, I’d love to hear how you’re preparing your garden! Are you trying any new plant varieties this year? Starting seeds indoors? Taking advantage of the warm weather to expand your planting schedule? Let’s share tips and celebrate the joys of an early growing season together!  Of course you can stop by for rabbit pellets, homemade pesticide that won’t harm kids or pets, gardening tools and plants.

**Happy Gardening!