What to do in April

Now that the weather is starting to turn warmer I start to think about snacking on cherry tomatos fresh from the garden and all the sudden feel a need to put that whole garden in right now.  April is your prep month for that big putting the garden in.  Here's a few things to look forward to doing this month in preparation.

1.  What is the condition of your garden soil?  This is the time to turn your beds, add soil amendments and do any repairs to your support structures.  If you're expanding your garden area you need to dig the new bad now.

2.  What are you planting this year?  Start by making your grand plan for planting.  For example: Decide if you need to move your cold weather crops so they don't burn up on a hot day.  I like to keep a garden journal and look back over what was successful the previous year and  repeat it again.  It's also a good time to put on your calender which weekends you need to plant which crops.

3.  Do you want to grow something new?  Do your research on the new planting you're trying.  I always like to try a new plant or two, and it's always good to know what you can expect from your new arrival. 

4.  Plant your cool weather plants.  If you haven't already planted peas, you'll want to get them right now, or it will get to blazing hot for you to harvest any.  Other things that can be planted are cabbage, lettuce, potatos, and onions.  Remember the average last frost date is May 10th.  These cool lovers can take a few light frosts, and can give itchy garden fingers something to work at.

Next Time: First Time Gardener do's and don'ts