The Magic of Spring

There is so much to look forward to in the spring. Every year I am relieved and refreshed when the first crocus bulbs begin to peek their heads above ground. The sun seems a little brighter, and the days begin to warm. The leaves have all been raked from the bases of the big maples, and the green grass brightens the yard. The magic of Mother Nature takes over, and with a little help, what was once dead and brown will transform. New plants and flowers bloom and are greeted by bird song.

During this time, most of all, I enjoy planning the new year’s cottage garden. When the weather permits, I gather my seed collection and begin the art of germination. Planting seed starts is always a joyful adventure. It is even better with company. This year Roger and I erected a small greenhouse, beside our metal, raised beds. It is the perfect addition to our expansive vegetable patch. The newly built hot house is functional and perfectly quaint, just big enough to fit the both of us, and an array of seed trays.

This season we decided to use Jiffy peat pellets, with SUPERthrive, and small spray bottles for watering. The set up was simple and to our excitement, it cultivated bounteous vegetable starts. Every morning as we drank our coffee, we would walk outside to greet our healthy sprouts and check for new growth. Every new leaf was celebrated, and the experience was truly a delight. When it was time to transplant our baby starts to the big garden beds, which are equipped with drip irrigation spigots, we had plenty to spare. The kids even had a plant sale, in order to make use of the extras! All in all, the garden is my sanctuary, and it is where you will find me from mid February-August!

xo,

Mykel