Getting Ready to Plant

Today was a day of learning about cover crops- I knew about nitrogen-fixing capabilities of legumes, but never really considered the added benefits of a good cover crop.  Natasha explained that the cover crops such as rye, clover, and vetch also promote good soil structure, prevent erosion, provide habitat for microorganisms, bring nutrients to the surface of the soil, maintain moisture, and inhibit weeds.

So while many of the beds may look fallow and overgrown, the soil is being amended and maintained until we come along to plant.  Today Josh and I incorporated the rye on one of the beds and aerated the soil.  We will plant peas (after soaking for 24 hours), lettuce, and radish for our party on 6/21.  The radish are ready to harvest in 30 days so we need to wait until the end of May to plant.

Lots to learn...

Some photos from the garden on Tuesday:  april 26 photos

April

Things are beginning/moving/growing...  Think & Eat Green section planted with potatoes, peas, kale, kohlrabi, pac choi, gai lan, spinach, lettuce, radish, beets, leeks, wildflowers...  Sprouts should be visible in the next few days!

Working on design ideas for entrance gate, living fence, seating/ table area.  Excited to be partnering with Sandra Scott's courses this summer, and hopefully several other professors.

It's April which means the weather is fickle but gorgeous, bulbs are in full effect, and the lovely Rabies sanguineum (native currants) are showing off their gorgeous blooms.  Rhubarb is unfurling it's meaty leaves and asparagus is returning from hibernation.  I love this time of year...

Picasa photos:  outdoor classroom photos