Draw a map or plan of your own home garden!If you have an unevenly shaped bed, measure the distance between the innermost and outermost points of each curve, and then plot those points on your map, connecting the dots with curved lines that echo the bed. Once you have this outline, draw in each plant or bed of plants. To indicate big beds, draw their outlines and make small cross marks to illustrate the spacing of the individual plants. Don’t forget to map in the trees and shrubs, using drawings like a cloud shape. Don’t forget to “key” them in, as explained below, so you wont forget what species they are. And also don’t forget to mark with a cross where you buried Rover, although you should have a fruit tree planted on top of him. If you're creating a map for a bed that includes seasonal plants, you could add overlays of tracing paper, indicating spring bulbs on one sheet, perennials on another, annuals on a third and so forth. Color makes a map easier to read. Shade spots lightly with colored pencil to indicate foliage or flower color. You might also use a key to help you read the map later. For instance, place a simple designation “P’s” for Petunias on your map. In the key, jot down the abbreviation; the botanical and common names; and any notes referring to flower color, height and other variables. It’s good idea to include taps and watering lines, slopes, ponds, and drainage areas. Map your fences (all fences should have something growing on them, preferably something you can eat!) and any compost areas. A garden map is an extremely useful tool. If you sell your property whoever who buys it will know where water lines are and what plants you have, and what species of trees and shrubs. A valuable asset for a new owner! Also for instance if you plant roses or herbs or whatever in one spot, and they don’t do very well, you’ll have a record of that, so you can plant them elsewhere next time! Go to our web page about how to combine beauty and productivity in your garden!
Happy mapping, Patrick |
