Source: Rick Durham, Department of Horticulture Professor 

Gardening is a rewarding experience that provides fresh produce and a deeper connection to nature. The Growing Your Own - GARDEN calendar from Plan Eat Move—a part of the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Cooperative Extension Service—is an excellent resource to guide both novice and seasoned gardeners through the planting and harvesting seasons. With monthly recommendations and engaging activities, the calendar helps individuals and families plan a productive and enjoyable gardening experience. 

A well-planned garden starts with careful preparation. Before planting, sketching a layout can be a useful exercise. For families, involving children by having them cut out pictures of vegetables and placing them on the garden plan can be both educational and fun. This interactive approach encourages engagement while helping gardeners visualize plant placement and spacing for optimal growth. 

The calendar provides a detailed month-by-month breakdown of what to plant and when to harvest. Beyond planting and harvesting, the calendar incorporates family-friendly activities to make gardening even more enjoyable. Keeping a garden journal allows individuals to track planting dates, growth progress and harvest yields.  

Children can add their own observations through drawings or short descriptions. Taste tests with homegrown produce introduce youth to different flavors while emphasizing the benefits of fresh food. Creative activities, such as making DIY garden markers with craft materials, add a personal touch and help with plant identification. 

Success in gardening often comes down to simple, consistent practices. By following the guidance in the Growing Your Own - GARDEN calendar, gardeners can cultivate a thriving space that not only produces nutritious food but also fosters family bonding. Gardening is a journey filled with learning, patience and the satisfaction of harvesting what was planted. Whether tending to a small backyard plot or a larger garden, these seasonal tips and activities provide the foundation for success. 

To access the guide, visit https://www.planeatmove.com/get-moving/growing-your-own-garden. Or stop by the Franklin County Cooperative Extension Office for a copy.