KJFM NEWS — Garden Talk is produced monthly at the Adair County University of Missouri Extension Center in Kirksville, Mo.
New Year’s Resolutions for the Home Gardener
- Feed the birds. Hang various types of bird feeders in the yard and keep them filled through the winter.
- Order seeds for plants not commonly found in garden centers. There are so many wonderful hybrid and heirloom varieties to choose from.
- Ask your parents and grandparents what they grew in their gardens. Maybe you could grow what your great grandma grew years ago.
- Start a compost pile if you don’t already have one. Compost your kitchen scraps.
- Plant native plants or wildflowers to attract more pollinators. Plant for all seasons so bees and butterflies have a food source from early spring through the fall. Plant milkweed for monarchs. Some common varieties include tropical, swamp, common, and butterfly weed. Check local nurseries in your area for plants.
- Share cut flowers from your garden, and excess produce with others. You’ll put a smile on their face, and yours! Excess garden produce can be donated to local food pantries.
- Support local growers at farmers’ markets. Farmer’s Markets today, have a nice variety of produce and baked goods.
- Eat outside whenever possible and enjoy the fresh air, the early morning sunrises and the evening sunsets. Take a walk and take time to notice the beauty of your garden and surroundings. In other words, stop and smell the roses!
- Volunteer for garden projects in your community. The Pantry for Adair County has 10 garden beds to grow fresh produce for their clients. Help is needed in planting and maintaining these beds during the summer. If interested contact Jennifer at 660-665-9866 or send an email at schutterjl@missouri.edu
- Take a gardening class like the Master Pollinator Steward or Master Gardener training. These courses will be offered late summer through fall. They will be offered as a hybrid course, Zoom for lecture, and in-person for tours and hands-on activities. There will also be a lavender class and field day offered in the summer. For children, Garden n’ Grow will be offered for the 22nd year in 2022 at the Adair County Extension Center.