While we have been making many updates since the weather has warmed up here in southwest Missouri, it has been slow-going. We have numerous half-finished projects and are having to go back and fix things that have not held up over the years. While frustrating, it has given us the opportunity to learn.
Front Yard Garden
High Tunnel
Our high tunnel is the one thing we need to work as it has had numerous issues. It has been so windy (with up to 50+ mph winds) that not only did it crack the bottom baseboards in half but it also ripped the plastic off the poles on the sidewalls. While we wait for the wind to die down a bit so that we can fix it, I’ve been putting most of my focus on amending the beds.
Our amendment of choice? Rabbit poop! We have great success with it last year and have plans to use it in all of our spaces. By spreading it out and then watering it in, we are hoping to improve the health of our soil.
On the Homestead
My favorite project by far has been the greenhouse! I can take no credit for this besides procuring the windows; my dad designed and built this. I’ve always wanted one but it was important to me that it 1. lasts and 2. is within my budget. All the material besides the polycarbonate has been from reclaimed or extra materials.
While it’s not finished, I went ahead and started using it for my tomato plants which have quickly outgrown there spot in the house.
My peppers, on the other hand, have stayed inside. The weather is still too unpredictable for me to feel comfortable putting them out.
We have had several new additions, the first one being ducks!
Our other new addition has been baby rabbits.
We’ve put a lot of focus on adding perennials, including berries and grapes.
Looking Forward…
In the month of May, we are really looking to start wrapping some things up. I’d love to finish the greenhouse, fix the high tunnel, amend the rest of my garden beds, and get everything planted. We have a TON to do while we also deal with our regular jobs and the end-of-the-school-year craziness.
While most weeks it feels like there just isn’t enough time in the day, working in the garden has been the one thing that fills my cup back up and gives me an immense sense of satisfaction. We look forward to sharing what next month brings as well as (hopefully) the conclusion to some of our projects.
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