January 2024
Welcome back to Uncle Jim’s Almanac! We have taken a break over the summer. Named in honor of Corena’s brother Jim, he was known not only by the family as Uncle Jim, but everyone at Bob’s Market.
Each month we’ll share growing information courtesy of the WVU Extension and also other information we find helpful, like growing by the moon. This information is geared especially toward our audience here in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Happy Gardening!
January
January is typically a cold month with winter conditions. While outdoor gardening activities are limited during this time, there are still some tasks you can consider:
Garden Planning:
Use this time to plan and organize your garden layout for the upcoming spring. Consider crop rotation and companion planting strategies.
Tool Maintenance:
Clean and sharpen garden tools to ensure they are in good condition for the upcoming season.
Order Seeds and Supplies:
Review your seed inventory and order any additional seeds or gardening supplies you'll need for the upcoming growing season.
Check Stored Bulbs and Tubers:
Inspect stored bulbs and tubers to make sure they are healthy and free from mold or rot. Discard any that show signs of damage.
Winter Mulching:
If you haven't done so already, add a layer of mulch around perennial plants to protect them from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Inspect Garden Beds:
Take a look at your garden beds and make note of any areas that may need improvement or amendments before spring.
Plan for Spring Clean-Up:
Outline a plan for spring clean-up tasks, such as removing debris, cutting back dead plants, and preparing the soil for planting.
Bird Feeding and Shelter:
Provide food and shelter for birds in your garden. Winter can be challenging for them, and they can help with pest control in the warmer months.