Here's where my mind is focused, today: Seed shopping. It's a good sign I'm feeling optimistic.

[Siwsan]

I'm feeling seriously motivated to get some more herbs started. I have Dill, Thyme and Oregano growing in my herb gardens but what to add Sage, this year. I've always kept it in pots and brought it in for the Winter but I remember my sister's herb garden had Sage and it wintered just fine. And I want two or three kinds of Basil. So, I'm checking for stores that have vegetable, herb and flower seeds in stock.

It's way too early to even think about starting any vegetables (I'm in Michigan) but since I like to get started in March, it's not too early to start shopping. Hopefully I will find some interesting tomatoes, this year. (Although I already know I'll be planting lots of San Marzano because they make for an AMAZING Marinara sauce.)

And, I'd like to start up a few flower pots, in the next month or so. I have 3 little greenhouses that are ready and waiting.

I'm feeling close to giddy!

[getagrip_already]

1. what's your go-to seed source?

I'm in MA 6a, and our last frost is late april or early may, so I won't be starting seeds until march. Last year I did a full spread, but will scale back this year to just what people like the most.

I ate everything, but some plants either weren't appreciated or took all season to deliver a small basket.

Off the list this year are sweet potatoes, okri, some f'r peppers, and maybe melons. I've added garlic though. Lots of garlic - but I had to plant those last fall.

[Siwsan]

2. Early shopping is at usually at Meijer

They generally have a really good gardening department. I used to get a lot at Lowes but they closed up all of their Genesee County locations. Then when my locally owned 'Farmer's Market' opens the first week in April, I look for the more unique stuff. Their seeds are a little more expensive, but I like supporting them. That's where I also buy any 'back up' plants if my seeds don't take or are slow.

I always have TONS of garlic that grows in every single garden. Which is good because I use it pretty much every day. I had great luck with my beans, peas, sweet peppers and tomatoes, last year. Not so much with the squash - both Summer and Winter were a bust.

[IowaGuy]

3. You might be interested in Seed Savers Exchange....

[link:https://www.seedsavers.org/|

They have a lot of interesting plants....both for vegetable gardening and ornamental.

[Siwsan]

4. Thanks!

I'll definitely check it out.

[UserNotFound]

5. I hear ya!!

Hope Springs eternal, does it not?

With the Inauguration safely tucked away and college football coming to an end (Roll Tide!), this past weekend was spent planting my pepper seeds for 2021. Tomatoes will follow in about 3 weeks. We make a lot of salsa and hot sauce, so those are the only things I grow...

Seed Savers is a wonderful organization, and their seeds have always done great for me! Best of luck with your garden(s) this year!!