From the Ground Up
by Elizabeth Ferry

Gardening This Year?
Encouragement for Beginners

January may seem like an odd time to think about the summer garden. But, in fact, it is the perfect time — the ground is frozen, allowing gardeners time to read, reflect, and plan. It is the season of seed catalogs full of tantalizing photos of summer vegetables and flowers designed to inspire us when we need them most.
Some people see through the pictures to the work on the other side.

Yes, gardening does involve work, much of it done in the sun or with insects flying around one’s head. But in this season of New Year’s resolutions, I want to give some encouragement to beginning gardeners. Gardening involves more than work, and it yields more than vegetables and flowers. What follows are some of my observations on the value of gardening and some practical advice for getting started.

Time to unwind. Time in the garden can be relaxing. Weeding is not demanding and may be a welcome relief from the demands and stress of the rest of your workday.

Time to learn. The garden is alive, growing, and changing daily. Every time you step into it, there are new things to see.

Time with nature. Gardeners may notice patterns in the morning dew, appreciate the beauty of a blossom that’s opening, or feel the touch of a gentle evening breeze. For many people, experiences like these are a source of enjoyment and comfort.

Empowerment, flavor, and scent! Simple, but deep, satisfaction comes from growing food. You’ll appreciate the fresh flavor and scent of just-picked vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Appreciation for others. Growing a garden of any size will increase your appreciation of local farmers and the bounty of food that is available to us.

An act of resistance. A recent study shows that the average pound of fresh produce travels more than 1,600 miles to reach the consumer. You can reduce that distance to a matter of yards when you garden. If you garden organically, you eliminate the possibility of chemical pesticide residues. Further, if you buy seeds from a company that has signed the Safe Seed Pledge or purchase seedlings from an organic grower, your bounty will not be genetically modified.

Practical Suggestions for New Gardeners
Start small. "Small" may mean a modest plot in the front lawn or a container garden on the patio. Herbs, lettuce, and edible flowers can grow in a window box. A single cherry tomato plant can yield dozens of tasty fruits from a five gallon plastic bucket.

Fertile soil. Plants, like people, benefit from good nutrition. Topsoil is good; gravel is not. Test your soil to see if it is well balanced. If not, improve it with organic soil amendments.

Admire your progress on a regular basis. Visit your garden every day or two to enjoy its beauty. While you are there, weed or water as needed. The use of a biodegradable mulch, such as straw or old hay, will save you time on both of these activities.

Winter Gardening Resources at the Co-op

	Seeds and organic gardening supplies. Co-op members can take part in a group order to Fedco and receive a discount. No minimum order. Catalog and ordering information available at the Information Desks. Order deadline: February 2.
	Classes. Presentations on gardening are included in the February/March and April/May semesters of Co-op classes. Pre-registration required. Flyer and registration form available at the Information Desks or on our website.
	Library books. The Co-op library, located on the second floor of the Hanover store, includes books on gardening. Members have borrowing privileges.

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