With so many things to do in the garden, it’s a wonder you can plan for tomorrow, let alone next week or month—but you should try. The payoff will be well worth it. From fastidious pruning for an increase in yield, to prepping for vegetable storage when your harvest comes in, you’ll want to be ready for the abundance of joy you’re going to reap!
What should you be thinking about when it comes to crafting this marvelous plan? Why, your kids for one! Are they weeding? Digging? Bug dispatching? Wonderful! Reward them with some fun activities like corn husk dolls. Consider using those same husks to make mini baskets—it’s an excellent exercise for little fingers to practice dexterity (and keep busy). Beats the computer gadgets hands down.
Related: Smarter Gardening- Keep the Weeds OUT!
Growing berries? How about mixing them with a dash of organic sugar and make your own preserves? Easy and fun. In fact, now that you’re growing your own fruit and vegetables, why not designate a special section to the kids, because everything tastes better when you grow it yourself. Really!
You might want to take up canning. It’s easier than you think and many vegetables don’t require an expensive pressure-canner. Peppers, berries, tomatoes… These can all be canned using a hot water bath. Basically, boiling your “jars filled with goodies” for the recommended time is all it takes. Next thing you know, your pantry will be stocked for the winter!
Don’t forget those herbs—these are easily stored, dried, even mixed with butter for later use. Not interested in eating them? Lavender makes for a satchel of glorious fragrance every time you open your drawer, especially welcome in the boys’ sock drawers.
Related: Seeds: How to Choose the Right Ones (For You and Your Climate)
Integrating your garden with other areas of your life not only instills a connection with nature, it teaches kids to appreciate what they eat and the work required for the same. Returning to the simple things in life can create a powerful feeling of inner joy and dare I say… Peace?
I mean, if I can lolly-gag in my garden and avoid the supermarket altogether—I’m in! How about you? All you have to do is “think outside the garden” and you will open your eyes to a bounty of potential pleasure and reward.
What's your outside-the-garden tip?
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