The Seeds of Summer

As a thrifty and nifty gardener, I've been starting specially selected seeds in house. Lucky me as I had a package of peat pots that I ran under warm water to expand, and then viola...I was ready to get things sprouting. A few seeds were directly sewn into the soil outside a couple of months ago, as I was dreaming and anticipating the make-over. Also, I made a few cuttings from a plant from the front of my yard, and put together a make-shift greenhouse for them, after doing a bit of research online.

It is of utmost importance to keep newly seeded soil damp, until your seeds sprout.

Foundations

The foundation for our Coastal Cottage Garden is now set in place! This is a great accomplishment and is exciting as we anticipate new plants springing up and a whole new look from many rooms in our home. Lounge chairs and umbrella are summertime optional! I moved our firebowl center, to our canteleiver bench. I'm giving us a huge pat on the back!

Laying the groundwork

Well, it took several days but I finally have the central yard bed layed out. It took two trips to the local composting facility where I purchased four bags of small shredded wood chips. They are not fancy, but at a buck a large trash can sized bag...it's a steal. This may be temporary. We might choose to replace it with stepping stones and moss/rosemary in the future but at least it's looking very nice right now.

It was grueling work to dig up the remaining grass/sod. It must have taken 5 or 6 days. I did get some help from my husband and son, and that was a huge help. Nevertheless, it was back breaking work. I did indeed need to take a few hours, days here and there to recooperate. At last, i did the final raking and poured out the chips. I raked that around, evening it out, as best as i could.

I think in time, the color and texture will relax. I still need shoes on to walk on it really, but chances are that it will decompose naturally and be a great weed and grass preventer while giving us the natural gsetting between the beds.
Next up...the foundation is complete!