Grow Your Own

Gardening is a great antidote for the stress and uncertainties associated with Covid-19.  It is a physical activity that can be done outside while maintaining social distance.  It provides for a future supply of fresh fruits and vegetables. And, there is nothing better than seeing a plant rise up from a seed to instill a bit of hope for a healthier future.

Here are some ways you can garden your way to a calmer state of mind in April:

Start your Vegetable Garden

• If you are new to gardening, OSU’s Master Gardener Program is offering free access to its on-line vegetable gardening  course through the end of April at https://workspace.oregonstate.edu/course/master-gardener-series-vegetable-gardening?hsLang=en Or go to our blog for the link

• If you already have a vegetable garden, April is a good time to directly sow broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, chard, chives, endive, leeks, lettuce, peas, radishes, rhubarb, rutabagas, spinach and turnips.

• This is also a good time to start  tomatoes, peppers, basil and eggplants indoors from seed.

• If you do not have outdoor space for a garden, there are many herbs and vegetables that you can grow on a deck or porch, or even inside in pots. 

Buying Seeds and Plants 

• Many garden centers and nurseries are still open and are a great source for seeds and starter plants. In addition seeds and plants can be ordered on-line and through catalogs.

• Many annual plant sales and garden festivals are being cancelled or postponed, including the Benton County Master Gardener plant sale.   Be sure to double-check the dates and times of  any garden-related activities before heading out.