Looking Ahead to 2013

It’s the time of year when everyone starts making their resolutions and planning ahead for the next year.  In the gardening world, we’re doing the same thing. Here are a few things to look out for in 2013:

Each year, the National Garden Bureau predicts an annual, vegetable and perennial to be showcased that are chosen for their popularity, versatility, and simplicity. NGB is predicting 2013 to be the Year of Watermelon, the Year of Gerbera Daisies and Year of Wildflowers.  All of these have not only been popular for years, but are great plants to grow in our Midwest conditions.

There’s going to be a big focus on water this year.  From creating drip irrigation, to rain gardens, water harvesting and drought-tolerant plants, gardeners are more going to be more conscious of the way their plants are watered and preserving what they can.

A few gardening trends that are going to become even more popular than they were in 2012 are miniature gardening and edible gardening.  Each of these offers something different for gardeners, and edible gardening is becoming more popular for novice gardeners as well. This year, urban farming will also be a growing trend as everyone strives to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Container crops and rooftop gardens will be taking center stage with the city-gardeners.

This may also be among your resolutions for 2013. An easy way to live green is to start in your garden.  Begin by creating your own compost pile.  Another way to be green is to start or expand an edible garden. Not only will you be everyone’s favorite neighbor on the block, but you will have fresh produce that you grew on your dinner table all summer long.  By learning different canning techniques, you can enjoy your produce throughout the year as well.

A few more ways to be green in the garden include converting to a natural or organic lawn-care program and using rain barrels. By collecting rain water to use for watering your garden, you will not only be recycling rain but saving money on your water bill.

Finally, attracting something to your garden other than rabbits can actually be green.  Hummingbirds, butterflies and bees can benefit all of your plants and your garden.  Having these little guys frequent your garden will keep you entertained and your flowers happy.

All in all, 2013 is shaping up to be a great year for gardening….now if only the weather would cooperate we will be good to go!