Dahlia Dreams & Cordova Spring Garden Update

This week has been a busy one—starting with my “weekend” at the farm stand. It’s a wonderful new addition that’s helping me get to know my community while giving me an easy way to learn what my neighbors like or need most.

The weather was absolutely beautiful, so I went all in on the garden. I spent time weeding around the early cabbages I planted, setting up borders, building a few raised beds, and putting up supports for my tomatoes. I purposely leave most mowing and heavy weeding until early to mid-April. By then, the bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects have had a chance to wake up and feed on the early spring blooms they rely on.

I’m especially excited about my dahlias this year. Last year I made a big move and had to downsize quite a bit. Knowing I’d be pregnant during the move, I wasn’t confident I could properly nurture the tubers through winter. So instead, I intentionally saved seeds from all of my dahlias, blended them together, and hoped for the best. I dug up the original tubers and gave them to a sweet gardening friend who is building her own collection.

When I sowed the dahlia seeds this year, I had no idea how well (or poorly) they would do. I was mentally preparing myself for the worst. To my surprise, 86 out of 90 seeds sprouted! They’re growing tall, beautiful, and healthy so far. I took a bit of a risk and transplanted 20 of them into a raised bed, while keeping the other 70 in the grow room. I’ve been moving them in and out every morning and watering them consistently. I can’t wait to keep documenting their progress.

This year is all about big documentation for me—saving as many seeds as possible from everything I grow, tracking weather patterns, processing herbs, and sharing the moments along the way.

How has your own gardening season started so far? I’d love to hear what’s growing well for you this spring!

Until Next Time!

Serena