Great to Get Out in the Garden Today

Yes, it has been far too long since I've been in my garden! Today I got some compost spread in 2 of the 4 beds. I actually have some pretty nice compost in my bin. It's much too moist and compacted from not being turned regularly, but it's dark and it will do. I mixed it into the top inch or so of the beds and will let it set for a few days before planting in it.

I also took my large containers (the ones that you can supposedly grow tomatoes in but I now know from experience that's bunk) and used them to plant some lettuce for both me and my friend Sarah. I think the lettuce will do fine since the plants have a shallow root system. The biggest challenge will be keeping the bunnies out of the container. I bought 2 varieties: Gourmet Red Lettuce and Esmeralda. I love red lettuce. I always have such great luck with it and it is so pretty. Esmeralda is a butter variety that I have not tried before. Because I'm getting such a late start, all of the plants look leggy and sad from too much time in their sprouting pots. I'm pretty confident they will thrive with a little attention, some good soil, water, and lots of space to spread their roots.

I posted a photo of the container planting on Facebook. I will be sure to post photos here, too!

Last, but not least, the rain total for the 2009 season is 34.21 inches! My readings are from March 24 through September 26 - approximately 6 months. Average rainfall/month was 5.70 inches. Crazy!