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CANFIELD -- On winter days when the outside temperatures make you decide just to hunker down and stay inside, there are still plenty of things to keep you occupied.
A task we at the Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer program always recommend is to plan your next year's garden. Take note of what went right and more importantly what went wrong. This is when having a garden journal would come in handy, making it easy to look back on the previous year. This is an excellent time to browse through seed catalogs - just remember to research what you might order to ensure it will work in your garden. Also, it is a good time to plan out any new garden space and decide how to rotate crops for the upcoming year.
Bring a little nature inside by starting an indoor garden. Herbs are an excellent choice with a few that can thrive indoors with proper light and care being basil, parsley and thyme. Remember they need a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight. By providing nutrient-rich soil and adequate water will ensure their growth and keep your kitchen supplied with fresh herbs throughout winter. Sprouts and microgreens grown under artificial light or sprouts in a jar in your kitchen will also supply you with fresh tender greens.
On sunny days I bundle up, fill a thermos and head to my garden shed to organize. Seems like at the end of the season things just get "put away." Getting things organized and in their proper spot makes it easier to find what I need when I need it. This also gives you a chance to discover what might need to be replaced and it's also a perfect time to clean and sharpen your gardening tools. Getting your mower blades, shears and other cutting tools ready for the new season gets you off to a great start.
If you take a walk in nature, you'll discover the beauty winter has to offer. From the hardscape structures in your garden covered with ice or snow to the peace you feel when walking through the woods. Many of us overlook what a crisp winter day has to offer.
After heading inside a hot toddy and crackling fire are on my agenda. It's a good time to expand your knowledge by reading gardening books, signing up for the OSU garden mailing list or finding classes and garden workshops. Sign up to become an OSU volunteer master gardener by calling the OSU extension office and take the class starting Feb. 20. Another OSU extension event will be the Spring Workshop, watch for dates, speakers and breakout sessions. Dates are always posted here on the Valley Grows Page, or you can see our entire calendar at http://go.osu.edu/Mahoningcalendar.
Hope these ideas help you navigate through the winter months while waiting to get back outside in your gardens!
Baytos is an Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer in Mahoning County.