Lasagne Garden

I feel that I am getting a late start on my veggie gardening so I decided to do a small raised bed 'Lasagne Garden'. I like the idea of no digging or removing the weeds first!
 Also no need to worry about dealing with the clay soil.

I laid down cardboard then proceeded with layers of bagged manure, uncomposted veggies and garden clippings, straw and then topped with bagged planting mix.  After planting I mulched it with another thin layer of straw to try and keep the moisure in. Once summer hits I am hoping it will help cut down on the watering.

This is definetly the store-bought method of lasagne gadening but its the best I could do for this year.
I have planted tomatoes, squash, cukes, peppers and several kinds of herbs.
My bed is about 4' wide and 12" deep. It has only been in a couple of days and I have already harvested most of my basil!

Humble Beginnings

While I am not a big fan of mail order plants I did find some interesting ideas and hard-to-find plants at High Country Gardens. They specialize in water-thrifty plants and have a beautiful catalog and website. If nothing else it is a great source for ideas and inspiration.
I saw the beautiful Sunrise Desert Agastache in their catalog and promptly ordered three!
They arrived in good condition but I was a little set back at the $$ for three small plants.
So, we'll see how they turn out....

 

Using leftover and recycled building materials to build a greenhouse | GardenWise

Using leftover and recycled building materials to build a greenhouse GardenWise

Redbud in full bloom...Its a beautiful thing

Redbuds are perfect for the central valley as they require very little water and seem to thrive in all types of soil.
We have quite a few of them in the front of the property...Very beautiful!

The joys of early spring---Checking out the polywogs

The day before Easter brought weather that was a little chilly but luckily no rain.

The dogs and Grandkids had a great time gathering polywogs out of the pond.

They were just 'sprouting' their legs so the kids were delighted to see them in transformation!