Spring Gardening Delights: Cultivating Joy and Abundance on Your Homestead

As we bid farewell to the lingering winter chill and welcome the gentle warmth of spring, let's take a moment to reflect on the parallels between the changing seasons and the sacred observance of Good Friday. Just as winter surrenders to the promise of new life in spring, so too does Good Friday mark the solemn transition from darkness to the hope of resurrection.

This week we talked about the importance of prepping our garden beds. Whether you’re breaking ground for a new plot or rejuvenating an old one, giving your soil the TLC it needs with compost and a good turning can make all the difference. We shared some fantastic tips for testing your soil to see exactly what it needs to be its most productive self. Remember, happy soil equals happy plants!

Then, we ventured into the exciting world of seed selection. Deciding what to grow is like planning a menu for the months ahead – do you go for the classics, experiment with something exotic, or a little bit of both? We talked about considering your climate, the length of your growing season, and, of course, what you love to eat. There’s nothing quite like the taste of a vegetable you’ve nurtured from seed to plate. Here's one of our favorite places to order seeds. 

Companion planting got its moment in the sun too! We explored how pairing certain plants together can help deter pests, improve pollination, and even enhance the flavor of your veggies. It’s like creating a buddy system in your garden, where everyone looks out for each other.

Watering wisely was another hot topic. With spring’s unpredictable weather, we discussed how to ensure your plants get just the right amount of hydration. From mulching to conserve moisture to setting up a rain barrel, there are plenty of ways to water smarter, not harder.

Lastly, we couldn’t forget about the joy of garden planning. Sketching out your garden can be as fun as decorating a room – it’s all about creating a space that’s both beautiful and functional. We shared some layout ideas and encouraged everyone to think about how they move through their garden, making it a sanctuary as much as a food source.

Spring gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life that connects us to the earth and each other. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just starting to dip your toes into the soil, there’s always something new to discover and share.

So, as we embark on this spring gardening adventure, let's carry with us the lessons of Good Friday – the resilience in the face of adversity, the hope in times of darkness, and the promise of new life. May our gardens flourish with the fruits of our labor, and may our hearts be filled with the joy of resurrection.

Happy Gardening, everyone!

~Ashley and the Homestead Mentors Team

P.S. Make sure you are registered for our FREE webinar on Monday AND Keep an eye out for next week’s topic – we’ll be diving into the benefits and how-tos of raised bed versus in-ground gardening. You won’t want to miss it!