Caught up in the countdown to winter? Just in case you weren’t keeping tally, winter officially begins on December 22nd. Still thinking gardens? Just in case you’re still tuned in, whether it’s flowers, veggies, fruit or green lawn that tickle your fancy, amateurs to the experienced understand good growing all starts with the right soil conditions. Remember last week’s post about testing your soil? http://blog.bilowzassociates.com/2011/12/garden-stocking-stuffer.html Well, what are you waiting for? Grab that baggie and gather that soil sample.
It’s worth repeating another important cultural practice as we countdown to winter, especially for those that grow a summer veggie garden. It’s one point mentioned repeatedly in my posts – no guesses yet? It’s rotating your crops. This simple exercise keeps your soil healthy and is the best way to keep those sprays and diseases to a minimum. Remember that good soil is where it all starts. So as the remnants of fall fade away and the winter countdown closes in, consider mapping out your garden for next spring’s sowing. Test your soil and make sure there’s a plan in place for rotating your crops. Gardening can be a cinch when you start with your soil. 
And if you really are counting down, remember these wise words from A. Cornelius Celsus as we ready ourselves to hibernate with our gardens.
“Live in rooms full of light
Avoid heavy food
Be moderate in the drinking of wine
Take massage, baths, exercise, and gymnastics
Fight insomnia with gentle rocking or the sound of running water
Change surroundings and take long journeys
Strictly avoid frightening ideas
Indulge in cheerful conversation and amusements
Listen to music.”
Avoid heavy food
Be moderate in the drinking of wine
Take massage, baths, exercise, and gymnastics
Fight insomnia with gentle rocking or the sound of running water
Change surroundings and take long journeys
Strictly avoid frightening ideas
Indulge in cheerful conversation and amusements
Listen to music.”
Post your favorite winter activity that keeps you healthy. The usual places to post are listed below.
Top Image from the Internet
Bottom Image of late fall garlic planting rotated to its new location by Ann Bilowz
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