Sorry folks, long time no blog. Although it is too early for most of us to start digging and planting, most local nurseries are well on their way to starting the new season. And since this is not only a passion, but a career choice for me, I have been elbow deep in potting soil all week [I'm so happy! 
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The biggest topic on my mind along personal routes is starting seeds. I’m choosing fairly simple plants and flowers this year, and most don’t need but a few weeks to get going. But I’ll expound on that in a few weeks, along with some common methodologies. I am waiting until the 19th or so to get mine started, mostly because I am leaving next week and don’t want to burden our housesitter with new seedlings -or miss all the excitement of the new arrivals!!!
In the meantime, don’t forget to thoroughly water your outdoor plants, esp trees and shrubs. This time of year when we have repeated freezing and thawing is when most winter damage occurs – the result of dehydration. Any water reserves that were left in the soil are surely used up by now, and just because the plant is still dormant, doesn’t mean that it doesn’t still need water.
For those of you that have indoor houseplants, now is a good time to start a fertilizing regimen. A low dose of a watersoluble fertilizer once a week will help give plants a boost to get them out of the winter doldrums. Remember: Weakly weekly. Also, carefully read labels, many commonly available fertilizers are high in salts, which can damage the roots of the plant and the soil health, so I encourage you to seek out organic brands, and be wary of any products that promise “miracles.” If you need to repot houseplants, give it a few more weeks yet.
How many of you have noticed the crocus and grape hyacinths poking up? I think I’ve been seeing a few daffodils as well – spring is definitely on the way!.
