Plant Something Day

 

The goal of this day is to highlight the importance of plants to our environment and to encourage people to add vegetation to the Earth. Over 80% of original forests have been cleared and nearly 70% of plants are at risk of extinction.

While there are more than 80,000 edible plant species, 90% of our food derives from about 30 plants. This varies with country and culture.

Modern and traditional medicine utilize 70,000 types of plants to treat ailments. There are other health benefits: plants absorb toxins in the air and produce oxygen.


Of course, you know I dug in the dirt today: I replaced an ailing Clematis with a healthy new specimen. I look forward to a proliferation of dark pink blossoms.


I installed a watering system for a new 3'x6' metal raised bed filled with three types of peppers, eggplants, chamomile, and marigolds. This setup will also serve three other areas with asparagus, strawberries/rhubarb, and melons.

In addition, I planted seeds in a 2'x20' raised bed: Blue Lake green beans, Yellow Wax beans, & nasturtiums; Straightneck yellow squash and Fordhook zucchini interplanted with Peaches & Cream corn; and at the far end, mixed mini pumpkins. I try to incorporate plant companions whenever possible to help deter pests and to improve crops.


Could you plant something today? The plant you chose could be indoor or outdoor; perhaps a tree, shrub, flower, herb, fruit or vegetable plant. The greenery could enhance a public space, your patio, or garden.

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