Spring is always an exciting time. Especially in the Midwest when we see snow melting and glimmers of hope for the world turning from brown to green. While this snow is coming late in the season, we feel extremely blessed to have the moisture. We still have a way to go to replenish our soils from drought conditions, it is a blessing, and we will definitely take what we can get.
The seed catalogs began arriving early in the year. As we discussed what to plant, the boys did a great job of discussing what they liked and why they felt our shareholders would like the varieties of crops from last year and a few new ones. They really did provide great insight into the process.
Last weekend when we drove in the yard and Sam saw that the snow was melted off the garden, he said, “Mom it is time to start planting.” While, the excitement to get out there was great! I had to explain to him that so many factors go into when it is time to plant outside including soil temperature. We started some seeds in March and have continued the process as we anticipate the glorious days of spring that are yet to come!
Steve had seen pots made from newspaper and wanted to see what it took to make them, if they were easier to handle, and how the plants grew in the long run. It didn’t take long for Keith and Steve to make these pots.
So in addition to using a couple of different styles of small pots to start our seeds, we also used a couple of potting soils to compare which one works better.
Keith and Sam did a nice job filling the pots and leveling off the soil. What boy doesn’t like the “excuse” to play in dirt and get dirty!
Sam enjoyed looking at the different seeds and noticed so many differences between seed varieties. So fun to see what they observe at a young age.
Our labels are wood scraps that Steve had around the shop that we were able to “reuse.”
Some people ask, how do you have time for this? You simply cannot beat the quality discussions, fun and learning that occur. This was a great time to work with both boys to develop new skills. Here Sam and I are planting seeds. He is learning how deep to plant, the importance of seed to soil contact for good growth, and labeling our seeds. Where is Keith? Behind the camera lens capturing the moment. As last year, look for many moments to be captured by this budding photographer.
Team work is definitely essential to accomplish any of these projects. And it does help when everyone is having fun and contributing to the end goals.
After planting out in the shop, we transferred the potted trays into our house, watered them and then set them on our heated kitchen floor, right next to our porch which is like a miniature greenhouse.
I will look forward to reading about what’s going on with you and the boys and the garden. Good luck with the seeds!