2020 Vision

• Posted on 3 January 2020
• 0

Buck-A-Gallon is back, 1 day only!

It is difficult to believe how quickly the past 20 years have flown by. Why, it seems like only yesterday we were all pre-occupied with Y2K and the perilous implications that life beyond the 20th century would certainly bring. Peril is a part of life, regardless of the year.

There is no joy that equates being outdoors with nature. That is why gardeners are so passionate about their gardens. Making the best use of your time outdoors is a part of that joy. Here are a few resolutions (or tips, if you prefer) for your 2020 gardening enjoyment. Use the ones you like, disregard the rest…

• Start composting (it’s easy and there is no excuse not to)

• Read the label on all products you use (they hide important information there)

• Stop referring to your garden hose as a hosepipe (which is it? A hose, or a pipe?)

• Mulch around trees, (keeps the mower away from bark) but don’t pile it around trunk.

• Have your soil tested (particularly if you are having problems in the garden)

• Use a drip-type soaker hose around shrubbery and garden beds (doesn’t spray and promote leaf disease, also puts water directly into the soil…where it is needed)

• Plant some berry-producing plants (blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are easy to grow and delicious)

• Increase use of organic fertilizers and pesticides

• Place a bench in your garden, or create a sitting area near your garden…it shouldn’t be all work

• Eat snacks/meals outdoors more often (see above for directions)

• Teach your children/grandchildren about gardening (avoid calling it “yard work”)

• Spray with dormant oil (but as the name implies, needs to be done while plants are dormant)

• If you have tree work that needs to be done, stay on the ground and get an arborist (they have the expertise and equipment)

We’ve heard the rumbling.  Friday January 3.  For one day only.  In one special area.  We have a collection of plants*, while past their prime, still very much alive.  Buck-a-gallon.  Hurry!

Happy New Year from Bates Nursery!

David Bates

*while supplies last