Preparing the Ground

A lot of people tend to think that there is a multitude of things that need to take place before planting a garden. While this maybe true for some....we decided to keep it simple.


The soil was our focus. We wanted to ensure that the ground that planted our seeds in was good, firm, vital soil. We prepped it 2 months in advance so that it would be ready to help our seeds grow to their maximum potential. Now, don't get discouraged when I say "we prepped" the ground. This did not take months to do. We completed it on a Saturday afternoon. Here's what we did to prepare the ground:

1. Turn the soil: -Turning the soil involves using a garden hoe to expose the soil under the ground, and mix it with the top soil.

2. Remove any existing weed: -Getting rid of the existing weeds will help prevent them from resurfacing during the spring and summer growing months

3. Spread Preen (http://www.preen.com/) over the ground, covering the soil. -Using Preen prevents any weeds from seeding or taking seed. If you use Preen, be sure to begin seeding your plants indoors or eco-friendly pots. Planting seeds directly into the grown where Preen has been used will prevent your seed from germinating. Using Preen keeps you weed free for the spring and summer months.


**Friendly Tip** As winter approaches, and you've reaped your last harvest, spread Preen over the ground. You can purchase yard plastic/coverings to cover the area where you plan to plant your garden next year. Using the Preen helps decrease the amount of weeding you may have to do year after year.


We began preparing the ground in February 2010. We picked a day where it wasn't too cold and got to work. Remember, with a little desire and imagination, you can turn a disaster into a masterpiece!