While winter may seem like the worst time for gardeners in Grand Junction, there is much to be done! Even though you can’t be out weeding and tending (though this year you can), you can plan and imagine and prep for the coming season. The following winter garden planning tips will help you make the most of your Grand Junction garden.
Seed Catalog Inspo
The seed catalogs are out and there is SO much to look at and discover! We’re always intrigued by new zinnias and cutting flowers, the huge variety of cherry tomatoes and herbs available, and flowers native to our area too. Finding a great wildflower mix for the high desert, for instance, is always on our radar.
Research and Plan
If you find new plants that you want to add to your garden, from a seed catalog or local nursery, it’s important to plant them at the right time. You don’t want to add iris bulbs in the spring, for example. Use this time to research the plants you’re considering adding, so that you’ll give them and yourself the best shot a successful garden season.
Most bulbs will need to be planted in the fall. Lots of wildflower seed can be sown then or in early spring (like now even with the temps being what they are). For perennial flowering shrubs, you can plant them after the last frost (so, after mid/late May here). That gives them time to establish roots before the heat of summer. The other option is to plant them in early fall (September) in order to give them time to establish roots before winter arrives.
For vegetables, spring vegetables, like carrots and radishes, these can go out as soon as the soil can be managed. You’ll ensure an early summer crop that way. This is the same for lettuce and spinach too. Repeat in early fall for an early winter harvest.
Most seedlings, like those for tomatoes, herbs and peppers, can go outside after the last frost (after Mother’s Day weekend). This is also when any seeds you’re direct sowing, like squash or melons, can go out as well. Be sure to “harden off” your seedlings by gradually exposing them to more and more sun / outside temps, before permanently relocating them.
Take Inventory and Organize
On sunny days, get out there and take stock of what’s in your garden shed/storage area. Do you have everything you need to get started as soon as you’re able?
- Garden Gloves that don’t have holes
- Seed starter and containers for your seedlings
- Potting soil, garden soil, and mulch
- Are your pots washed and ready to reuse?
These are just a few suggestions for planning your winter garden. In our next planning post we’ll discuss how to add a new zone to your yard.
Ready to take your landscaping to the next level? Contact us! (970) 234-9691