We have finally thawed out and the snow has melted. For the next 5 days and nights we will have "tolerable" (if that is a word. ) temps, which will give me an opportunity to get several things done. At least that is what I am thinking. What I think, and plan does not always happen, however. Things come up which take precedence over my time. Don't you have that happen in your life? And how is it that things often take much longer than we think they will? If it is not true in your world, welcome to mine!
I have added two new projects to my "to do" list. I have two above ground ponds that leak and I have been using them to house some marginal plants which can actually remain out of water, but need their feet wet. Putting them in the leaking ponds allows us to soak the soil, therefore, soaking the roots. The pots then have wet soil but the water in the tank will seep out allowing the pot t dry somewhat over three or four days, keeping the plants from "drowning." I expect to sell many of these extra plants in the spring, thus no longer needing the ponds for this purpose. Both of the ponds are shallow, being only foot deep. They re great for starting lily tubers and seedlings, and this is what they were built to do. I have decided to empty the two ponds, and either patch the leaks or replace the liners so that they can again be used for their original purpose.
Why would I want to spend the time doing this? Because the shallower ponds will heat up earlier and faster in the spring than deeper ponds. The deeper ponds, 16-30 inches, are needed for the plants to grow during the summer, but the plants will actually grow and thrive in the shallow ponds through the summer also, so they will give me additional pond space once the plants are started. Simply put, I need the ponds for plants that need to be covered in water!
Are you "pond"ering ideas to get your plants started early? Maybe this is something to think about.
Enjoy your "pond"ering!