While snow is falling across much of the United States, we Southerners are frolicking outdoors, basking in the warmth of blue skies and our still-flourishing garden. I hate to rub it in, but come July/August, I’ll be envying my Northern garden friends and their temperate weather. Until then, we can unite in looking forward to a fabulous 2018.
Ever wonder what new trends will consume our methods and madness? What part of our lives will be transformed by green ingenuity? I do. From flora-tourism to urban greening, bio-density farming to micro-gardening, there is a new wave of gardeners sweeping the land. For details on what to expect from them, what to dabble in yourself and perhaps, what to enjoy while on vacation, check out this litany of trends from garden bloggers and experts.
Some things I’ve noticed are the emergence of food forests – a gardening technique (or land management system) which mimics a woodland ecosystem by substituting edible trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals. Fruit and nut trees make up the upper level, while berry shrubs, edible perennials and annuals make up the lower levels. I first learned of food forests via the Florida Gulf Coast University in Ft. Myers. Students have established one of their own and with my daughter bound for college next year, I’m prodding her to take a visit (so I can have a look-see!) and consider taking part.
Another one of my favorite trends is smart gardening when it comes to watering techniques. Florencia Ramirez has written an eye-opening book on the subject: Eat Less Water. In a nutshell, it’s all about inter-planting crops with micronutrient-rich roots. Sound simple? It is and definitely a must read for any backyard gardener. As is the entire list. Visit Gardenoid for more details!
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