We’ve marked April 22nd in many ways over the years. In 1985 I welcomed my little brother into the world (happy birthday, Dan!), and in 2006 we put an offer on a brick ranch and learned it was accepted that same evening. This year we’re doing something a bit more down-to-earth: planning an edible garden. Plan, not plant—many of the herbs we like need more time before we put them in the ground.
You might remember an earlier post about one of our boxwoods dying. After that loss we debated what to do with the rest of the row. The consensus was to remove the finicky, overgrown bushes, reveal more of the brickwork, and start fresh.
That small patch of soil is one of the few full-sun spots on our nearly one-acre lot, so dedicating it to herbs, vegetables, fruit, and a cutting garden felt like a natural choice. The idea of stepping out the back door to harvest fresh organic produce and flowers is pretty much garden heaven. Here’s what we’ve got so far:
There’s still lots to do, but today is a great day to sit down with gardening books and use trusty Google to plan the rest. Besides a happy little raspberry bush we scored for $9 at Lowe’s and a surprise peony that popped up (mysteries of the garden!), the bed is mostly empty.
We also transplanted a few daffodils that never bloomed in the shade, and that tiny rosebush tucked in the corner has finally been freed from being swallowed by larger shrubs. We sowed spinach and lettuce seeds, too, though they’re taking their time to emerge. Fingers crossed they’ll be worth the wait.
So that’s our Earth Day plan at Casa Petersik. How are you celebrating Mother Earth today? Fill in the blank:
Today I’m celebrating Earth Day by ___________.
There are countless simple ways to honor the planet: unplugging the TV and playing cards by candlelight, starting a compost bin, attending a rain-barrel workshop, swapping old bulbs for compact fluorescents, or simply bringing a ceramic mug to work to cut down on disposable cups. Share what you’re doing today, and feel free to pass along any edible garden tips or suggestions—we’d love to hear them!