Seasonal Planting Guide
Just like a well-investigated claim, a thriving garden needs the right foundation. Here's my seasonal planting guide for the Wilmington area:
Spring (March - May)
- Start seeds indoors: tomatoes, peppers, herbs
- Direct sow: peas, lettuce, spinach, radishes
- Plant perennials: hostas, daylilies, coneflowers
Summer (June - August)
- Transplant: tomatoes, peppers, eggplants
- Direct sow: beans, corn, cucumbers
- Succession plant: lettuce, radishes, carrots
Fall (September - November)
- Plant bulbs: tulips, daffodils, garlic
- Direct sow: kale, spinach, turnips
- Plant cover crops: clover, winter rye
Winter (December - February)
- Plan next year's garden
- Order seeds and supplies
- Maintain tools and equipment
Soil Health
The truth is in the soil, just like the truth is in the data. Here's how to keep your soil healthy:
- Test your soil: Know your pH and nutrient levels
- Add organic matter: Compost, aged manure, leaf mold
- Rotate crops: Prevent nutrient depletion and disease
- Mulch: Retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Cover crops: Protect and enrich soil over winter
Pest Management
Like investigating a claim, pest management requires careful observation and targeted action:
- Identify the pest: Know your enemy before acting
- Monitor regularly: Catch problems early
- Use barriers: Row covers, netting, copper tape
- Encourage beneficials: Ladybugs, lacewings, birds
- Targeted treatments: Neem oil, insecticidal soap, Bt