In the planning stage

 Everyday brings with it new adventures. Some things remain the same, while others are completely different. Things have been strained between my son and I, and I didn't know why until today. I thought he was mad at me, but instead it bothered him to see me when I wasn't doing well. So I guess I will just have to stay healthy. Sounds like a good plan to me. My garden for 2013 may not be as easy to fix. According to many articles I've read in the past week I will need to do a lot of prep work before I plant again. I will need to break down the heavy soil that I have by adding  mulch and compost to it. About 4 to 6 inches in depth should give me good soil to work with. Then keep adding another inch or so each year after. The clay soil here holds the water on the surface allowing mold and fungus to grow and infect the plants. It also takes longer for the soil temperature to rise and the temperature of the soil drops faster too. Plants have a hard time reaching their full potential when the soil is actually holding them back. By adding the mulch it will create a better growing environment. The soil will be more porous, allowing better drainage and a better root system. Because the soil will be drier, it will warm faster and hold the heat longer. This will deter the growth of fungus and allow the vegetables a better chance. By adding the compost and manure it will promote the growth of good bacteria. This good bacteria is needed to eat the bad bacteria that lives in the heavy clay soil.
 I'm planning on a bigger and better garden for 2013. And if I do a better job of planning and planting, I might be doing less work and getting a better harvest. My first task will be to make more space available for the garden. Overcrowding was a problem this year. The plants need room for air movement and sunlight, all the way down to the roots, especially tomatoes. No tomato leaves will touch the ground in 2013. I will be paying attention to air circulation to ensure a dry soil surface. I think I will plant everything in raised rows or hills to help control the moisture and air. Time will tell.