You ever just look at your garden and wonder how in the world everything grew so wild and beautiful all of a sudden? I mean, one day it’s just dirt and seeds, and the next, it’s an explosion of color and life. I've been thinking about starting a garden journal, you know? It feels like the perfect way to capture those fleeting moments — like when the first sprout peeks through the soil, or when I finally get around to planting those ridiculous-looking heirloom tomatoes. What if I could look back and remember the excitement, the little triumphs, and, oh, the epic fails (like that time I overwatered the succulents and they turned to mush)? I want to document it all, the joys and the mess, because isn’t that what makes gardening so rewarding? So, what do you think? Could a garden journal be a way to celebrate the chaos of it all?
Items You’ll Need
- Garden Journal
- Pens/Pencils
- Plant Markers
- Ruler
- Camera or Smartphone
- Gardening Books
- Seed Packets
- Soil Test Kit
- Gardening Gloves
- Trowel
- Hand Pruners
- Watering Can
- Garden Planner
- Weather Station
- Compost Bin
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather My Equipment
First, I’m going to collect all the equipment I need for my garden journal. This includes my Garden Journal, Pens/Pencils, Plant Markers, Ruler, and a Camera or Smartphone for documenting my journey.
Step 2: Create a Cover Page
I will start by designing a creative cover page for my garden journal. Using colored pens, I’ll draw some flowers and write the title "My Garden Journal" in big, fancy letters.
Step 3: Choose My Garden Layout
Next, I want to sketch out the layout of my garden. Using my ruler, I’ll measure the area where I plan to plant. This will help me decide where to place each plant.
Step 4: Record My Garden Plans
In my journal, I’ll make a section for my garden plans. I’ll list out the different plants I want to grow, referencing my Gardening Books and Seed Packets for inspiration.
Step 5: Document Planting Days
Each time I plant something, I’ll write it down in my journal. I’ll note the date, the type of seeds, and any specific planting instructions I need to remember.
Step 6: Create Plant Markers
I’ll use my Plant Markers to label each plant. I’ll write the name of the plant and the date I planted it, then stick it in the ground next to the seeds.
Step 7: Take Photos
I’ll take photos of my garden every week using my Camera or Smartphone. This will help me visually track the growth of my plants and how my garden evolves over time.
Step 8: Monitor Soil and Weather
I’ll use my Soil Test Kit to check the soil health and my Weather Station to record daily weather conditions. I’ll jot down my observations in my journal to correlate with plant growth.
Step 9: Document Gardening Activities
Throughout the growing season, I’ll document my gardening activities like watering, weeding, and pruning in my journal. This will help me keep track of what I’ve done and when.
Step 10: Create a Harvest Log
Once I start harvesting, I’ll create a special section for my harvest log. I’ll note what I harvested, the quantity, and maybe even recipes I want to try with my homegrown produce!
Step 11: Reflect and Plan for Next Year
At the end of the growing season, I’ll take some time to reflect on what worked and what didn’t. I’ll write down my thoughts for next year, including what new plants I want to try.
Step 12: Keep the Journal Updated
Throughout the year, I’ll keep my journal updated with seasonal changes, plant growth stages, and new ideas that come to mind. This journal will be my gardening treasure!