By Natalie Osorio
YAY!! Spring is here- the rain is coming and the flowers are blooming. Winter is leaving, her gray hue and darkness is diminishing. Spring is an exciting time of year where a wide variety of activities are available. A few of these activities include planting a garden, having a picnic, and taking a hike. You know when you have to plant a garden that spring has begun. This activity is great; not only is it a fun way to spend time with loved ones and do exercise, but this activity allows you to relax your mind and live in the moment. In order to partake in this joyful activity, there are a few steps that you should follow:
Choose the optimal location: Choose a location for the garden that has access to plentiful sunlight and is at a close proximity to your home’s water source.
Select the vegetables: In late February to early March, cabbages, kale, broccoli, onions, and cauliflower are great to start with. In mid-to late March, sow peas and spinach are best.
Prepare the soil: Mixing compost and natural fertilizers is crucial for increasing the condition of your soil. Garden supply stores can test how acidic your soil is and recommend proper garden equipment.
Check planting dates: Growing conditions and ripening cycles depend on the plant and the season so you should not sow all the seeds at the same time. Planting dates are located on seed packets
Plant the seeds: Place your seeds into the soil and be sure that they are not planted too deep or too far from each other
Add water: Spray the garden with water and keep the soil moist throughout the growing season
Keep the weeds out: Mulching is the best way to prevent the overgrowth of weeds. If after mulching you still see weeds, be sure to yank them until you see the entire root come out.
Give your plants room to grow: Find a spacing guide online to ensure you do not crowd the seeds together.
Fertilize as needed: Till the soil by hand and add fertilizer to preserve its richness. In addition, you can make homemade fertilizer by using Epsom salt, eggshells, fish tank water, and compost.
Reap what you sow: Harvest the vegetables when they are young but pick them when they are to be used.
In addition to gardening, having a picnic is another great idea. There are hundreds of recipes online, however a few great picnic-friendly meals include: Spicy Pineapple Slaw, Blackberry-Peach Cobbler Bars, Southern Style Potato Salad, Mini Muffulettas, Tomato Sandwiches, and more. In addition, before you go, be sure to think about how many people are attending to avoid leftovers. If there are numerous children attending, be sure to pack several paper towels and plastic bags. If they love ketchup or mayo- be sure to bring extra condiments!!
Hiking is another great spring activity, especially due to the incredible weather and fresh air that await. During the spring, waterfalls are flowing at full force due to the snowmelt, which makes them perfect for sightseeing. While planning your hiking trip, be sure to:
Choose a route: This also includes deciding a location. Finalize if you would prefer to hike in a park or in wildlands. Keep in mind that park trails are always seen, however they are designed for hikers of all levels. Wildland are protected by federal or state governments but are usually less crowded and developed.
Assess your fitness level: Fitness is extremely important for hiking, but you can’t predict how fast you will be as a hiker based on your weight or age alone. If your trip is in a few months, you have plenty of time to get into the proper shape.
Learn what to pack: As a rule, if you do not need to carry supplies, it’s probably a walk instead of a hike. Be sure to look into “the 10 essentials” which include rain gear, shelter, knives, and more, which are crucial for hikers. In addition, be sure to pack plenty of food, water, water filters, and clothing.
Take Safety considerations into account: Be sure to have a clear map of your trail and let someone know where you will be going and when you will be back. In addition, carry a first aid kit and be sure you can use all the supplies in it. Familiarize yourself with methods of rescue, such as having phone numbers for emergency rescue services. You must also have knowledge of the flora and fauna you will be encountering, to ensure you wear the proper attire to prevent conflict.
The Clipper is very excited for this spring and we hope you have an amazing time!! Be sure to sing, dance, and never stop smiling!!
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