Winter Projects

Outside its cold and grey, but inside its the perfect day to go surfing; on the web that is. We live in such a wonderful age today where finding the right project to fit our needs and goals for our gardens is only a click away. Having just moved to a new property this past fall, the idea of laying out a new garden and flower beds seems like a daunting task to say the least. I want to try and stay environmentally friendly as possible, while creating a look that is unique to me. As a gardener I understand it is my responsibility to set an example and to help others learn and find ways that can help our wonderful planet. So armed with a large mug of coffee and a view of my future garden I began my task. Several hours later I find myself excited and filled with renewed energy to get my gardens planted. The deck off of the kitchen is my first area of attention and the ideas below are not only earth friendly but economical as well. both being wise choices.

My first of many projects is from http://www.thetinylife.com/gardening-small-space/ . The gutter planters will be perfect to line the rail of the decking outside my kitchen.  This project will allow me to be able to enjoy fresh herbs and assorted lettuces in a unique raised planting bed. Raised planter like this one is great for people that have back or knee problems as well as or have limited space.How will I do it? The website comes with directions but at first blush it seems quite simple. Measuring the needed amount of gutter, I will use a pair of tin snips to get the needed length, drilling drainage holes with a large drill bit. Finally adding end caps which I might have to buy from a local Home Improvement store if I cant salvage any and then attaching to the railing on the decking with wood screws should accomplish the task. If I am feeling extra creative I might paint them in bright colors for extra fun.

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For seeding I found a great site that included how to make your own planting dibble http://beekman1802.com/general/a-homemade-dibble.html. A dibble is what can be used to make equally spaced and depth holes for seeds. The dibble can be made in different shapes and sizes with a minimal amount of equipment and materials. Since I will be planting a trough type of garden I will use a 1 inch x 4 inch x 2 feet for easy handling and workability. This site is definitely worth spending sometime exploring.

If I really plan and organize myself and my projects I can make my own seedling cups from toilet paper rolls with the directions I found at http://savingslifestyle.com/2011/06/stockpiling-reminder-roll-toilet-paper/ . I must have known I was going to find this project as I have been saving toilet paper rolls for about 3 months and have enough to make quite a few seedling cups that will get started under the grow light in the next few weeks.

Once I complete this project I have another one waiting in the wings on different planters and ways to stack them..and wait till you see what I can do with old shoe storage hangers!

Did I mention my Pallet planter? With matching lounge chairs? Being green is going to be so much fun this year and its going to save me so much Green!