Like most gardeners when starting up; to get weekly information, I had to seek it from books, magazines, media, and friends, then, more often than not, it had to modified to suit my situation / location.
This web site is a compilation of these modifications.
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To address the subject, I took advantage of the growing habits of plantlife, i.e.
The site has been developed along the lines of a book, hence the 'open book' logo, ' and kept true to the definition of the word 'Almanac'
'Almanac'; An annual publication containing a calendar of information and related topics for the coming year, or an annual reference book of useful and interesting facts.'
As with most books there is an index page ! this site is no different, I have made this my 'home page'.
From here you can use the 'rollover links.' to the various sub sections of the site, many of which, are supplemented with further information in the 'Related Links' column.
In most instances,clicking on a thumbnail photograph will allow you to view an enlargement of that image.
Background information;
Firstly; I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the people who have directly, or indirectly helped me over the years to gain the cultural experience to produce this website.
In the main the site has been constructed to highlight to the reader, tasks for a given time of the year, and not as an 'in depth' information package on gardening.
Generally, I have not considered 'varieties' of plants for a number of reasons, and they are;
i) Many of the varieties I have grown over the years are no longer available.
ii) New varieties are being introduced every year.
iii) Many varieties may be affected by local soil conditions and location.*
iv) I have also taken a similar view with the naming of chemicals and composts, as they, like seed, are not now available.
If more detailed local advice is required, I suggest you contact other growers in your area on what varieties grow best in your area.
* I have attempted to develop the 'location' aspect of growing plants, and in particular 'planting out times' in my Frost Zone chart
May I give a few words of advice when using the information on this site; "Let common sense prevail"
For example; some of the techniques described on this website may differ from what you the reader is used too, this is not surprising considering 'Gardening' is not an exact science.
So my advice in this case would be; use the method best suited to your conditions and facilities and again "Let common sense prevail"
It must also be said that it is not imperative to carry out any task/s at the times shown in this website simply because it says so.
If the weather or soil conditions are not in a fit state to carry out the task/s, then delay the timing until such times as they are.
The data given, has been averaged out over a number of years, and should cater for this anomaly.
Finally it only remains for me to wish you all every success with your gardening, and leave you with this thought;
Treat the earth well:
It was not given to you by your parents,
It was loaned to you by your children.
Taoist Proverb
