Anemones and ranunculus have been uncovered from the low tunnel for a week, and I’ve already spotted rabbit destruction. Last year the rabbit ate all of my cosmos and a chunk of zinnias before I could get fencing up. I needed something quick and inexpensive, so I stapled chicken wire to wooden stakes. It wasn’t pretty, but it worked. This year I wanted to invest in something that would look cleaner and be available to reuse when needed. I opted for a metal 28 gauge rabbit fencing with small t-posts. I tried t-post clips to fasten the fencing to the posts but couldn’t get them tight enough, so I twisted some craft wire like a bread tie. I could work slowly, step intentionally, and enjoy a brisk, overcast day. The entire project took me three hours.

I started a no-till garden in 2021 to help prevent erosion. I’ve been dumping mulched leaves and adding straw in my top beds for the last few years. Last year the straw was still thick; I didn’t get much to germinate, and even the weeds struggled. As I rake and clean the beds this year, I can see the breakdown, giving me excellent crumbly soil. I’m eager to see how the plants react to this healthy-looking soil.

Week 8 recap:

• Started red leaf hibiscus and more lisianthus seeds.
• Purchased and set up a domain email address.
• Wrote copy for my website.
• Planned marketing strategies.
• Researched product packaging.
• Installed rabbit fencing.

Week 9 plans:

• Purchase sink and faucet for bathroom remodel.
• Purchase compost & worm castings.
• Plan & shoot stop-motion seed starting video.
• Design brochure.

I notice feelings of angst creeping in; my last frost is six weeks away. It feels like I’m at the starting line, waiting for the whistle to blow.

Happy Gardening,

Lelo