“It’s not even spring yet and you’re already talking about that pile of stuff I call my garden journal?” Absolutely! The most time consuming part is making the journal itself. This article will help you with suggestions for the journal, what to put in it, and how to organize it. So get a jump-start on spring by finally getting your journal finished! [image via lcfreelancing]
First, you’ll want to decide what to use for your journal. Most of us would likely choose a beautiful store bought journal where we can do writings and drawings and place dried flowers, but a three-ring binder has proven to be a lot more practical – and you will be very proud of the effort you put into your journal! You can also purchase colorful tabs, assorted markers, and stickers, which will give your journal a bit of flair. Remember, this is supposed to be fun!
Personalizing your journal can be a lot of fun even if you aren’t creative. If you have a computer and printer, you can snap a picture of the flowers or plants in your garden, print them on regular paper, and then use them for the front, back and even the spine of your journal! You can type words on each insert, such as “Jenny’s Garden Journal.” Then you can print or write on the tabs for each section. There can be a section for each plant/flower you have planted or will plant. Make a sheet for each plant with the name at the top. You can tape receipts, plant tags, and information about each plant on this page, and then make holes in this sheet and put it right into your journal.
If you want a neater, lighter journal, you can also scan your receipts and tags, print the sheets, and then slide them into page protectors. Another great idea is to print out to-do lists for your garden for each month. These work great as the first section of your journal, because you’ll see your list as soon as you open it! Great examples of to-do lists and ideas for the outside of your journal can be found at the always useful IowaGardener website. There are more great ideas on the internet to add to your basic journal. The options are endless!
As you can see, there’s no reason to have tags, receipts, or any of your garden info lying around or piling up. It’s time to get organized and finally finish your journal! It’s easy and fun – and you will be so glad to keep your New Year’s Resolution.
