Here's where it gets real.

As you've progressed through this course, we hope you've been thinking about all the projects you'd like to do in your yard. We would like you to now take one of those ideas and really get to work on it. Part of why so many people struggle in the garden is that they simply put other chores and tasks above garden maintenance on their to-do list. By making your garden a special project, with achievable goals and a clear picture of what you'd like to end up with, you can create your dream landscape, step by step. If you haven't been thinking about your final project, that's okay, too! Check out the list below for some great ideas:
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  1. Create a gardening binder. This is a great idea for all gardeners, and is the first step to understanding your unique landscape. Begin by creating an accurate 'map' of your property, complete with a building footprint and hardscaped areas, measured by the foot. Then, identify each plant you have in your yard, and mark where they are on your landscape map. Next, create a page for each specific plant, complete with care and pruning notes. This will give you a clear idea of the work that needs to go in to your yard to keep it looking great. Finally, create a gardening calendar, complete with how often plants should receive water, be fertilized and when they should be pruned.
  2. Research the insects and animals that live in your area. If your interest was piqued by the biodiversity modules, this might be a great project for you! Visit local websites, zoos, or nature centers to identify each animal and insect that lives in your area, and create an informational booklet for yourself. Make sure to identify those insects and animals that are harmful to your garden, and research humane ways to eradicate them. Part of this project can also be to wander around your yard, taking pictures of all insects, animals, and evidence of each to include in your project, as well.
  3. Pick a famous botanist, horticulturalist, researcher, or naturalist and create a biography. At the end, include a list of all of the plants you'd plant in a garden honoring this individual, and if you'd like to go a step further, create a garden map and place the various plants you've chosen.

If you aren't inspired by any of the above project ideas, feel free to browse the previous projects page to view what others have come up with:
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