Mmmmmm, first sprouts showing...

The first tasty signs of veggies to come. In my head I was imagining the wait for germination as Sprout Watch 2011, but upon reflection of the past two years and what I always seem to see first I think Radish Watch 2011 is more fitting. They are so darned fast to germinate, and seem to love our less than stellar spring weather.

On a slightly sadder note my bean plants have succumbed to morning temperatures that must have been darn close to frosting. I guess when every gardener tells me it's to cold to grow beans here, especially down in Harvest Gardens, they are including me; it's not just jaunty banter. Two big lessons thus far and the season is just begun (the radishes having barely popped): don't seed your carrots deep (I only got a handful last year because I can't read seed packaging), and don't try to grow beans in Harvest Gardens (though I managed 7 beans from 4 plants last year).

Below are some pictures of some of our green thumb's planting magic. They are far more encouraging than anything my brown wilting thumb has managed to date.

Herbs and Spices, courtesy of Joanne D.

Love this little touch, now I want one.

Planning a garden plot...

Even though the snow is still knee deep, being at the garden a few days ago has me in the mood for all things gardening. So I planned out what I'm going to plant. It's a small variation on last year. More of things I loved and that grew well, but a little less variety (some things just didn't work for me). I have a 4' x 12' plot so lots of room to play. I'm going to try mixing the beans and potatoes this year as they are supposed to like each other and my beans were rather dismal last year. More carrots because it seemed like I hardly got any last year and they were one of the best tasting veggies that came out of my plot. A little more lettuce, and a little less spinach, just to change it up. And about the same amount of peas.

I don't want to jinx our chances of a nice weekend, but i have a feeling that we may be able to see grass by Easter Monday. One step closer to real spring.

Attempt #1 at 2011 Plot Plan