Community Wellbeing
Start Now! Planning your Planting with Purpose
February is a great time to start planning your spring planting. What does this have to do with community? Well, your sowing dates and planting recommendations are very dependent on the zone in which you live. Learn more in this challenge.
The Challenge
Get to know the recommended timetable for sowing and planting your spring and summer flower garden or consumable garden.
The Groundhog may have predicted six more weeks of winter, but don’t let that stop you of thinking about spring days ahead! To make the most of your outdoor space, be it a planter on your balcony, a huge garden on your land or raised bed next to your home—in this instance, size does not matter! Instead, start planning to get the best bang for your buck.
If this is your first time planning a garden (flower or fruit/veggie) you’ll want to do some research on what zone you are in (this map from the USDA is foolproof!) From there, you can determine when the best time is to start to sow your seeds (this means starting your seeds so they have a chance to germinate. Some people do this indoors, some go outdoors and cover with recyclable materials—just depends on your space, where you live and your wishes.)
There are several factors to consider:
- How much space does each plant need to be healthy?
- Will the plant do well in your hardiness zone (refer to map linked above)
- Do you have the time for this plant (some are more fickle than others!)
- What other plants should I plant near this one? This is called companion planting.
- Is this plant native to my area? Native plants provide a HUGE benefit to your community. You can learn more about native plants here.
- Will this plant bring me joy (YES! THIS MATTERS!)
If you’re not sure where to start, consider using AI to support your efforts. You can ask ChatGPT with prompts like:
- “Suggest plants for an 8x10 garden using only native flowers for zone 7a.” (Make sure to use the zone in which you live, and the approximate space you have plus what you’re looking to plant.)
- “Design an 8x2 garden box that includes broccoli, tomatoes, onions, basil while also recommendations for companion planting”
- “What are native plants in zone 7a for a west-facing flower bed? Include those that would be good for a border.”
Once a response is generated, continue to provide prompting questions to refine your search. If AI isn’t for you—you can find a lot of information by doing a web search or going to Pinterest.
Let’s Get Together
Do a seed swap with Sisters in your area. This would be a great idea for an upcoming Alumnae Association Event. If you have a local extension office near you, invite them to come and educate the group on conservation efforts or how pollinators can improve a variety of things in your area. Consider serving tea with local honey and a salad with edible flowers.
Report Participation
Document your participation in A Clear Vision of Life: The Wellbeing Program and be entered to win a challenge incentive! Click here to let us know you participated in this challenge.