Hummingbirds are back and moose are wandering our streets ... it must be time to plant the garden.

We at Victory Gardens encourage everyone to get in on the fun and start your gardens now. Seeds for cold-weather crops (spinach, kale, Swiss chard, arugula, radishes, potatoes, etc.) and other vegetables (snow peas, carrots, lettuce, etc.) can be planted now. Ace Hardware offers a variety of organic seeds for sale, from such local companies as Botanical Interests. Consider growing herbs as well (basil, mint, cilantro, parsley, etc.)

Growing at elevation has its challenges (cold, wind, deer, voles, aphids, etc.) but it can be done. At our garden farm on W. 3rd Street, we use regenerative methods and a variety of infrastructure to account for local conditions. We grow our vegetables in raised beds, using hoop houses and cold frames when possible. We also have a small greenhouse for growing warm-weather crops such as tomatoes, peppers, squash, and herbs. Plants can be grown in individual containers, or inside on a windowsill. Fertile soil is key. Our growing soil consists of a mix of cured horse and alpaca manure, organic amendments such as mushroom compost, and local soil.

Given the declining populations of butterflies and other pollinators, we encourage everyone to grow pollinator gardens. This can be done on business or Town property, in a backyard or school yard. We suggest native, high-altitude, drought- resistant wildflowers. Beautify your backyard, and enjoy the company of butterflies and hummingbirds.

As a nonprofit dedicated to developing local food systems, we offer free consultation regarding your specific garden needs. For more information, please visit our website at nedvictorygardens.org.