I don't really keep a garden journal per se, but I do have an elaborate system of documenting traits for varieties in my collection, patterned after the descriptor data used by the USDA - which I've only been halfheartedly following for the last few years. So as I regrow varieties, I will be making greater effort to fill in the blanks. That especially includes more photos. Also organizing the 15-years-worth of photos I already have by variety (they are organized by date at present) which is a work in progress... something constructive to do while the garden is frozen.
DW & I planted several fruit trees last year, but still intend to put in a couple more. And as mentioned on other threads, with much of my small wood lot dying due to the emerald ash borer, I will be starting seedlings for trees & shrubs to replace them. Hawthorne for sure, and possibly elderberry & mulberry - all from rooted cuttings. Possibly black locust or other thorny trees as well, something likely to resist the deer which pass through my yard.
Invite wildlife into my garden??? That would defeat the whole purpose of fencing!
Feathers always welcome,
fur keep out! (Except cats, which are always welcome.)
The gardens are constantly evolving, so this year is no exception. At home, I am expanding one of the vegetable plots; this will involve removal of a stump, cutting down a tree which shades that area, and bringing in topsoil to increase drainage. I've also begun adding charcoal from the fire pit to that garden, gypsum to improve workability, and larger amounts of shredded organic matter.
The rural garden will continue to be challenging. The horrible weed pressure experienced last year will undoubtedly return, but since we allowed nothing to seed last year, hopefully it will be more manageable. We will still be bringing in more topsoil, to further address the drainage issues of that garden. This plot has been cultivated since 2005, so starting this year, we will begin adding larger amounts of organic matter... now that we finally have the equipment to handle the large quantities required for that plot (5900 square feet).
As demonstrated by some of the germination rates last year, much of the older seed in my collection is desperately in need of renewal. Some varieties will need intensive TLC to rescue; I'm beginning germination tests now to identify those. And after the problems last year, we will be starting backup transplants for almost everything - especially beans.
One possible major project. We have been looking for an affordable front-load tractor; if we find one, that will be the start of a complete re-landscaping of our drainage-challenged back yard. I've always had access to topsoil, just not the means to move large amounts without testing my aging vertebrae.
