Soaking Beans

During Memorial weekend, we were able to get our beans soaked, sprouted and planted.

Both bean varieties are Heirlooms that we have been growing and saving for the past couple of years.

Calypso Bean Sprout

October Bean Sprout

All beans were started and soaked at the same time,  but October Beans definitely get the fastest sprouting award... These guys sprouted within 24 hours..

The Rattlesnake Beans have been the slowest to germinate..Taking their own sweet time! 

Rattlesnake Beans are climbers, and will be planted to eventually grow up the old bed frame tower.

Let the gardening begin

I couldn't stand it any more... I just had to dig out the cold frames and to see what was actually going on inside the boxes.

At first glance, nothing really exciting! 

I was surprised to actually see anything growing in them at all. Lack of planning on my part...

This box contained carrots that we never got around to picking... and with no extra care on my part, they were left to defend for themselves against the brutal, frigid temps that we experienced later this season.!

After clearing the old tops away...I noticed that many of the carrots had turned to mush.... there are a few diehards in the bunch, that are determined to survive no matter what! 

The Kale, Broccoli, Lettuce and Spinach happened to be left over seedling starts from last season that had been left to die, unloved, and long forgotten about!

The dirt in the frames was pretty frozen. If I plan to overwinter anything this year, I will need to take measures to amend the soil and mulch heavily with straw.

I am just excited to get the boxes opened up and to get gardening!

Let the planting begin...

It was high time to clean the seed trays and get the planting under 

way for 2014. 

Playing in the potting soil and making blocks for the Ailsa Craig 

onion seeds. 

Loving the opportunity to get my hands dirty :-)

I found the secret to making perfect soil blocks is using a pretty wet mix. Pressing against a solid surface while

releasing from the mold. This makes a perfect block every time!

After seeds are planted in the blocks... I add a little vermiculite for a 

light cover and keep those tiny seeds in place.

with a variety of seeds...

A mixed tray of  lettuce and spinach was started as well.

What have you got started for your gardens this year