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It’s Your Life
Compost is an excellent way to recycle kitchen “waste” such as bits and pieces of leftover veggies,
eggshells, apple cores, citrus peels and more. It is not recommended to add dairy or meat to your
compost. Add chemical-free yard waste such as dead leaves and grass to your compost pile as well. As
these leftovers begin to decompose, you might find that worms have invaded your compost bin. This is a
good thing. Optional: turn your compost once or twice a week.
Spring Cleaning in the garden is not so much a chore as it is a chance to get back into the garden and
connect with nature. After all, if you expect your garden to feed you and maybe your family, it deserves a
bit of TLC.
Planning out your garden is an important step for a successful harvest. Companion Planting is a
wonderful way to boost plant health and offer organic pest control.
Keep soil moist but not soaking in water. Allow soil to almost dry out before watering again to avoid
soil-borne diseases.
Bonus: Tips for Starting Seedlings
For indoor seed starting, plant seeds 4-8 weeks before your last frost date. Indoor seeds need
warmth of 73 degrees or more and at least 6 hours of light per day. If using a grow light make sure the
light is only 2-3 inches from the seedlings, but do not let them touch.
Tips for Seed Germination: Most seeds benefit from a good soaking. Beans and Corn can be soaked
for 3-8 hours. Most seeds can be soaked for 24-48 hours and can decrease germination time while
increasing germination rates. Some seeds such as Carrots and Peppers can take 21 days or more to
germinate.
It’s Your Life Magazine • Issue 1