As spring arrives in Sonoma County, gardeners, including me, are eager to take advantage of our beautiful and mild climate allowing us a long growing season. After some research to get my garden started, I discovered these essential tips to help us make the most of our garden this spring:
Our amazing Sonoma County enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate supports a wide variety of plants, but it also requires thoughtful planning to manage water usage and protect against frost.
Choosing the right plants is critical. Incorporating native and drought-tolerant species into our garden will help to reduce water consumption. These plants are well-suited to Sonoma County’s dry summers and require less maintenance. If you haven't already done so, plant trees that can thrive in future climatic conditions to ensure our landscapes remains resilient.
Okay, now to what to plant and how: Start with beets, carrots, chard, lettuce, cilantro, dill, potatoes, leeks, and onions and sow directly in the garden. Begin growing lettuce, chard, parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, onions, basil, and leeks indoors before transplanting them outside. Once they're established, move lettuce, leeks, onions, brassicas, and chard from indoor pots to the garden.
Maintaining your garden throughout the season is also critical. You'll want to apply fertilizer to citrus trees to promote healthy growth. I always like to use organic fertilizers, such as True Organic or EcoSmart. Pruning and trimming is also part of maintenance. Prune summer-flowering shrubs and thin raspberry canes to encourage new growth.
A growing season is never complete without having one or more of my emitters fail. So, you'll need to inspect your irrigation system for leaks and ensure all emitters are working properly. We use drip systems and mulch to conserve water and reduce evaporation. A solid water system will conserve water and ensure a prolific garden.
One thing we have not done, but many of my clients have, is to install a rainwater harvesting system to collect and reuse rainwater for irrigation.
Soil health is also a critical component to a healthy garden. We add compost to our soil to improve its structure and fertility. Composting also helps combat climate change by storing carbon. Next, apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and prevent soil erosion. Pests are real. Keep an eye out for aphids and snails, using organic methods like insecticidal soap and Sluggo to control them.
By following these tips, you can create a thriving and sustainable garden in Sonoma County that not only enhances your outdoor space but also supports local wildlife and conserves resources. Nothing is finer than heading out to the garden at meal time and gathering essentials for the meal. Oh, and don't forget the herbs!
