Gardeners that maintain a garden journal to document progress, plant varieties, track bloom times, and record successes (or failures) of plant combinations don’t need to have good memories, as the journal will become a most valuable tool and reference resource specific to your garden plot (image courtesy: www.gardentech.com).
By John Green, Certified Texas Expert Gardner, Orange County, TX
There are just days remaining in 2025 which was challenging year for us all… good riddance, sincerely glad the end is near! It’s time for the years-end reflection (something that always seems to provide me with clarity). None of us can make it through an entire year without a few “bumps and bruises” along the way. There are always some wonderful experiences which provide us with happiness and conversely there are events that are endured…such is the ‘fabric’ of life!
Years ago, I learned to simplify New Year’s resolutions, mainly because I never attained them! Elaborate (over-the-top) resolutions broadly stated are doomed to failure from the onset, rarely lasting through the month of January. Over the years, I have determined that the only way this gardener can maintain a New Year’s resolution is by creating a small, realistic’ list of declarations. As you may have guessed, increasing my knowledge of plants is always top of my list, followed by gardening projects, then becoming a better person through plants (just kidding)!
To create New Year’s gardening resolutions, focus on sustainability, skill development, improving garden design (productivity), and supporting community. It is important to note that creating too many resolutions will prove to be daunting and will quickly become overwhelming. My suggestion is to commit to one or two resolutions, which are much easier to manage and most likely to sustain throughout the year.
Sustainability (Wildlife Focus)
- Build a compost bin and develop composting skills to create nutrient-rich soil amendments from yard debris.
- Add native plants adapted to our environment which provides crucial habitat for birds and beneficial insects which require less water and maintenance.
- Install rain barrels and switch to a drip irrigation system to conserve water and utilize it more efficiently.
- Allow leaves to become “natural” mulch in garden beds offering protection for beneficial insects, whiles providing nutrients to the soil.
- Add water sources for pollinators (honeybees, butterflies, and birds) for all seasons and provide shelter.
Skill Development
- Pruning is an art, learning to master the correct techniques (timing for different plants) to maintain plant health and increase blooms.
- Germinating plants from seed, such an exotic vegetable, rare flower variety, or fruit you enjoy eating.
- Expanding gardening knowledge by taking a class or searching resources from a County extension office to increase knowledge.
- Formalizing knowledge of gardening by becoming a Master Gardener volunteer, then sharing information with the community.
- Maintaining a garden journal to document progress, plant varieties, track bloom times, and record success (or failure) of plant combinations. Record planting dates, seed varieties, watering, fertilizing, pest control, weather, frost dates, temperature, harvest yields (quality), diseases, pests, and solutions. Documenting details within a garden journal allows gardeners to excel at gardening, becoming a valuable resource and reference!
Garden Design (Productivity)
- Resolve to improve soil health by testing for pH and nutrient levels, then adding organic matter frequently.
- Try vertical gardening with trellises and hanging baskets to maximize small spaces.
- Grow vegetables which the family enjoys or frequently used in cooking to reduce grocery costs while providing nutrient-dense, fresh ingredients.
- Add statement edifices, such as sculptures, mirrors, obelisks, decorative arbors, or wind chimes, for focal points to personalize the garden space.
- Plant a tree to provide shade, fruit, clean the air, and support wildlife.
- Add aesthetic interest by including plants which provide seasonal visual appeal.
Mindfulness and Community
- Reserve time to enjoy the garden by creating a seating area. Practice mindfulness by journaling outdoors.
- Share the harvest with neighbors and donate surplus produce to local food banks.
- Join a gardening club, connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts, or participate in community projects.
- Support our local garden shops and nurseries to help strengthen community bonds and get expert advice.
Happy New Year y’all! Thank you for all the positive comments and gardening questions during 2025. Let’s go out and grow ourselves a greener, more sustainable world, one plant at a time! Please continue sending comments & questions: jongreene57@gmail.com.
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