Insights from a Local Expert
As the chill of winter fades away, Chestermere gardeners will eagerly be anticipating the arrival of spring, signalling the perfect time to rejuvenate their beloved green spaces. Elvie Lloyd, a seasoned gardener with over a decade of experience, shares invaluable insights and practical advice on how to kickstart your garden after the winter hiatus.
Elvie’s approach involves incorporating manure, compost, and mulch before winter sets in. “Covering the garden with tarp is optional,” she notes, highlighting her preference for mulch to provide shelter for beneficial insects during the cold season. She suggests leaving roots in the soil during the winter to enhance nitrogen levels, making soil preparation easier come spring.
“When spring arrives, timing is crucial,” Elvie advises. Waiting until the soil warms up ensures optimal conditions for seed germination and minimizes the risk of mouldy seeds. Regular weeding is essential to prevent unwanted plants from overtaking the garden. Assessing soil quality is key, according to Elvie, who recommends using a soil tester for pH balance. For nutrient-poor soils, organic fertilizers like bone meal and blood meal can be effective remedies.
Elvie’s plant recommendations for early spring include onions, garlic, and potatoes, while cautioning against planting beans and peas too early due to soil temperature concerns. For novice gardeners, Elvie emphasizes thoughtful planning and companion planting. “Only grow what you’ll eat,” she advises, advocating for strategic plant selection to maximize yield and minimize waste.
Beyond vegetables, Elvie advocates for cultivating flowers like cosmos and marigolds to attract beneficial insects for pollination. She also encourages preserving dandelions in early spring to provide vital food for bees. Elvie’s passion for gardening stems from her upbringing and serves as a therapeutic escape from daily stresses.
This season, why not join countless others in Chestermere who are embracing the joy of gardening? With the promise of fresh vegetables, vibrant flowers, and the satisfaction of nurturing life from seed to harvest, gardening offers a world of possibilities just waiting to be explored.
