I planted kale and beet seeds. This is a container garden I tried last year and had good luck with kale so thought I would add some beets to see what happens. 

I also sprinkled some mixed greens seed so I think I will call it my salad garden.

All of these are cool season crops meaning they prefer cooler (but not freezing) temperatures to germinate. Just right for this early spring. I will keep you posted on their progress.  Just in case, I plan to start some indoors, too.

I sent a soil sample from my garden into Iowa State’s soil lab to see what it needs this year. You can also get soil test kits from the Linn County Extension office in Marion. My soild test came back showing I had extreme levels of K and P (not the same as K.P. kitchen patrol).  

P is phosphorus, which is important for fruits and flowers, and K is potassium or potash which is necessary for good root growth.  Looks like there are plenty of nutrients for this years garden crop! I guess that’s because I put the garden waste and compost back into the soil each year. No fertilizer, but the natural kind here.  I’m hoping for another productive and low maintenance garden year!

For more information about gardening check out the resources available at Iowa State. Or call the ISU Extension and Outreach Linn County Master Gardeners in Marion at 319.447.0647. The Master Gardeners can also help you determine what you need to do to help your soil once you get your test results back.

What are you planting this year?

Kristi Cooper
ISU Extension and Outreach Family Life Specialist