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Garden Goals
Have you ever thought about setting garden goals? If you are like me, you are motivated by simply getting outside and connecting with nature. I love to get outside in beautiful weather and that makes me want to grow something.
Gardening is a way to squeeze in some physical activity into a busy schedule. Growing a vegetable garden is very relaxing and a way to accomplish a few goals.
Personal satisfaction and health are major goals for most of us when we think of gardening. However, setting goals will help you achieve what you are looking for.
For example, if you want to reduce your grocery bill throughout the year by preserving part of your harvest, you will need to figure out how much you can actually grow in the space you have. Also, knowing how much to plant for your family. I have been known to get all excited about ONE okra plant that was definitely not enough to feed hungry boys in a season. Try dividing up two pieces of okra for four people!
Working with your time constraints is a major factor. How much time do you have to devote to the necessary tasks of gardening? All of these factors bring together where, to begin with setting garden goals for yourself.
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Take Stock of Your Personal Resources
The amount that your garden can produce is defined by the amount of time and effort you can put into it. Ask yourself the following questions:
- How much time do you have each week to work in the garden?
- How much available space do you have to plant?
- If you want to preserve some of the harvest, where will you store it, and in what form?
- What is your budget for supplies, plants, and seeds?
The last question is really the most important. I have gotten into trouble when I see all those little plants at the garden store calling my name. They end up in my cart and lining the porch table before I can think it through. I have definitely wasted money on plants I could not get into the ground or my ideas were too much for the season I was in. Defining your resources and the money you want to invest will allow you to achieve more of your goals.
Define Your End Results
Once you have a clear picture of what you want, you can set realistic goals. Would you be thrilled to grow a few kitchen herbs to mix up your everyday cooking? Do you see yourself canning 20 quarts of tomatoes for next year’s family spaghetti night? Both are different goals and require different supplies and commitments. Sometimes starting small is better than going big and getting out of control.
How to Plant Your Garden in 4 Steps
- Decide what to plant. Make a list and note what grows best in your area. Know how much you need for your family.
- Pick a location. Location is key to success for vegetables. You need sunshine, water, and accessibility.
- Create your garden beds. Will you grow in the ground, in raised beds or grow up with trellises? Do you need to amend the soil? Check with your local extension office for free and personal help with your garden.
- Start planting! Start seeds, establish transplants, or put larger plants right in place. Check each plant for best planting practices. Give each plant the best survival rate by following your zone recommendations and growing season for your chosen plant.
When you follow a few simple garden goals to get growing, you will be rewarded with food for your table. It is satisfying to be able to supply fresh, healthy food for your family. Even if it is one okra at a time.
About the Author
Holly is an author, storyteller, and Florida Master Naturalist who loves to share heritage skills taught to her by her grandmothers. Florida has been her family home for generations and preserving that lifestyle for the future is her goal. Holly enjoys coming alongside women to share skills and help them discover their own natural gifts and talents.