Gardening Activities and Planting Techniques

Spring is in the air, and with it comes the excitement of embarking on a new gardening project. Whether you are growing vegetables for your pet birds and lizards, cultivating herbs for culinary use, or experimenting with wildflowers, there is no shortage of things to grow. Let's delve into some of the activities and techniques involved in these gardening endeavors.

Feeding Your Feathered Friends and Reptilian Pets

For those with birds and lizards, the season calls for planting sprouted seeds and herb seeds. This section details how bird owner Jeffrey Green has been planting sprouted beans and lentils for his parrots and has not forgotten to sow basil, parsley, and oregano seeds for both the birds and the lizards.

Basil: A staple in many kitchens, basil is easy to grow and can enhance the flavor of dishes for both pets and humans.

Parsley: With its strong, peppery flavor, parsley is another herb that can be beneficial to birds and lizards. It is vital in providing essential nutrients and can be used as a treat.

Oregano: Known for its robust aroma, oregano can be a welcome addition to the diet of your feathered and scaly friends. However, consult a veterinarian to ensure it is a suitable addition to their diet.

Experimenting with Alpine Strains of Cannabis

For those interested in exploring medicinal and recreational cannabis, there are unique strains available. Jeffrey Green mentions a low THC, high CBD variety called Bhutanese Thimphu, specifically grown in the mountains of Bhutan. Traditionally used by locals to fatten their pigs, this strain is recognized for its medicinal properties, including relief from anxiety, muscle pain, and promoting relaxation.

The strain's balance of cannabinoids and terpenes makes it an excellent choice for managing various health conditions, particularly those associated with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Jeffrey's wife has benefited from this strain, and its popularity continues to grow.

Planting Boxwood and Cultivating Asparagus

In this section, Jeffrey describes his activities while preparing for spring. He mentions planting a boxwood ilex in a large pot and sowing basil and parsley seeds. Additionally, he plans to plant asparagus crowns as soon as the rain stops. Asparagus is a perennial plant that benefits from proper care and planting techniques.

Replanting Wildflowers and Learning Their Names

Jeffrey's gardening journey also includes transplanting wildflowers from a lot beside his house to his yard. He identifies one as a milkweed, Asclepias humistrata, and a pawpaw, belonging to the Diospyros genus. Despite having severed the taproots to facilitate transplanting, there is no certainty that these plants will thrive. Jeffrey keeps an optimistic outlook and plans to collect seeds for future planting.

Cultivating Liatris and Herbs for Culinary Purposes

Jeffrey also mentions planting Liatris spicata, commonly known as dense blazing star or dense gay-feather, a native prairie wildflower. This wildflower can be a valuable addition to any garden, providing both beauty and pollinator support.

And, as mentioned, every kind of herb possible can be grown. Whether it's for culinary use or for health-related benefits, herbs such as basil, parsley, and oregano are essential in any gardener's budget. They can be used in various dishes and can also be planted in large pots or hanging planters, making them perfect for small spaces.

Conclusion

Gardening is a rewarding activity that can provide both physical and mental benefits. Whether it's planting seeds for pets, cultivating herbs, or simply enjoying the beauty of wildflowers, gardening is a fulfilling practice. It's important to experiment, learn, and adapt to local conditions to ensure the success of your garden. Happy gardening!