Life in the garden begins with the dirt. It is the base, full of good ingredients, that will generate healthy growth. Just as humans need supplements and healthy food, so do the plants, trees, produce, or herbs in your garden. I have learned a lot in my travels to farms, and the most valuable thing I learned is if your dirt is not enriched, your plants will not be either.
This time of year is when we put the garden to rest. We trim and cut back and regenerate the soil in preparation for a bountiful spring. It is a time to wipe away failures from last year in the garden and begin again. Nature always gives you a second chance, and I for one take it. I trim back hard and lay my beds with the best compost achieved through biodynamic, organic processes. Then I wait for new growth to appear and that lush moment we all dream of as gardeners, known as spring.
I am always rewarded for the winters rest I give my garden. My plants and citrus trees especially have responded well to my new knowledge of supplementing my soil. This year I am trying two different kinds of compost. I think they will both be great as I greatly respect the farms they came from. Compost is helpful in keeping your plants disease resistant as well. Last year my roses did not do well almost right away. I did not compost well and I know they suffered for it.
The more we nurture and feed in life, the better the results. I am a life long nurturer. Not only in my garden but with my friends and family. I have a passion for taking care of things. I also have a passion for knowledge and doing what I do as best I can. I have always loved gardening, possibly due to my English roots, but I never really took the time to learn the proper way to keep it going. So now I know. I recommend a harsh cut back of your garden this time of year and sourcing a biodynamic farm or organic farm near you that makes a good compost for winterizing your garden. It will make all the difference throughout the year. Continue with appropriate fertilizers and if you must spray, use a safe organic brand. I have pets so I am super careful to not have anything toxic in my garden.
If you are in the Los Angeles area, I recommend Apricot Lane Farms or One Gun Ranch for your compost.