There are not seven wonders of the world in the eyes of a child. There are seven million.
~Walt Streightiff
I’ve gained an “apprentice” in the indoor garden. Our 12 year-old son is fascinated with the vegetable and herb seedlings growing under lights. His interests lean towards science and technology so he’s assigned himself as “data collector”. Also, “light adjuster” and “heating pad monitor”. Also, I think he may be my “boss” now…HAHA! Training up a next-generation organic grower right in our spare bedroom! COOL.
Sign courtesy of Andrew Gustavson
Who wouldn’t be fascinated by the dark green and fuzzy okra seedlings? They’re beautiful! They’re also quickly outgrowing the newsplug and will need to be re-potted tomorrow. Time to get the rest of the lights up! The mesclun and radicchio are also ready for transplanting. It doesn’t take long, does it?
Outside today it was time to insulate the compost pile. A thick layer of leaves and pond debris on and around the pile keep it insulated from winter’s cold and deter rodents from digging. A tarp serves the same purpose, as long as air can circulate to keep things “cooking”. It also keeps the nutrients from washing away when the spring rains arrive.
With the outside garden finishing up I’m looking ahead to what the indoor garden will bring. I’m hoping there’s space enough to add more herbs to use for tea and cooking this winter. I’d like fresh chives, savory, marjoram, lavender and chamomile. The gardener’s eternal quest to squeeze in just a few more plants…
