Welcome to the New Year with Stepping Stone Garden Coach!
As we step into January, it’s time to refresh and renew our gardens—and ourselves. This month, we’ll focus on returning to the First Principles of Gardening. Whether you’re just starting your gardening journey or looking to realign with the basics, this is the perfect time to set the stage for a bountiful year ahead. Let’s dive into the essentials of garden planning, care, and growth!
January Garden Refresh: A Clean Slate
January is the month to clear out the old and make space for the new. Begin by tidying up your garden—remove any lingering debris, dead plants, and weeds. Pruning is essential this time of year; trim back dormant trees and shrubs to encourage healthy growth in spring. Take stock of your tools—clean, sharpen, and repair anything that needs attention. Your garden is a reflection of care and intention, so start fresh with a clean, organized space.
First Principles of Gardening
Gardening, at its core, is about understanding nature and working with it. The First Principles of Gardening include soil health, water management, light exposure, and selecting the right plants for your zone. Start by testing your soil and adding organic matter like compost to enrich it. Observe how sunlight moves across your space and plan your plantings accordingly. Water wisely—deep, infrequent watering encourages strong roots. Choose native and seasonal plants that thrive naturally in your area.
Renew and Plan: What to Plant in January
January is an excellent time to plant cold-hardy vegetables and herbs. In Central Florida, consider planting kale, broccoli, carrots, beets, and onions. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage also do well in the cooler weather. If you’ve been thinking about adding fruit trees, now is the time to plant citrus, avocados, or plums. Planning now ensures a thriving garden in the coming months.
January in Central Florida
January in Central Florida means crisp mornings and mild afternoons. The average high is around 70°F, while the evenings dip into the upper 40s to low 50s. Rainfall is minimal, averaging around 2 inches for the month. Take advantage of the cooler weather to get ahead on major garden projects.
Did You Know?
Did you know that earthworms are essential to healthy soil? These little garden helpers aerate the soil, enhance nutrient cycling, and improve drainage. A thriving worm population is a sign that your soil is in excellent condition.
Garden Quote of the Month
“The love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies.” – Gertrude Jekyll
Wrap-Up: Start the Year with a Garden Plan
The best way to start a successful year in the garden is to have a plan. A raised garden bed can be the foundation for a year of fresh produce and blooms. If you’re ready to give the gift of gardening to yourself or someone else, join my waiting list at www.steppingstonegc.com.
Need help designing, planning, or planting your garden? I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Visit www.steppingstonegc.com to connect and get started.
About Me
Thank you for joining the Stepping Stone Garden Coach community. Let’s make this year the best one yet for your garden! See you next month!