Backyard Garden 2013: Day One

Okay, okay, so it's not that exciting - to most people.

Today, March 11th, in the midst of the windy flurries of Chicago, I planted the first seeds of my 2013 Chicago back yard garden...because I'd like to start harvesting tomatoes before Labor Day (I hope!). The seeds went into indoor planters today - and sit in my window box.

At the end of the month I will start the cucumbers and yellow squash and in April I will start the pole green beans. All of these seeds are organic of course and will be nourished in part by my compost and vermiculture (or worm poop).

Last year was my first attempt to start my garden by seed indoors (this of course doesn't include the perennials). This year, based on germination rates and their rate of growth once seedlings, I am planting at different times. The green beans went crazy and twisted all around each other before I could get them outside, so they are getting planted last.

I bought a few other seeds, including onions and lettuce. Not sure when I will start those or where I will put them...but that's part of the challenge and the fun of back yard gardening!

Hope to have some seedling pictures to post soon.

Enjoy the last days (feel like weeks) of winter....

Alexandra Gnoske is a nature lover, writer, and environmental expert.