3 Solid Reasons to Create Goals for Your Yard and How to Do It

January is, I realize, a very clique time to be setting new goals. However, what else is a gardener to do in January but dream of Spring? Even if you think you have a black thumb, if you have any yard at all, you should do a bit of planning now to help you out later.

Why?

First, having a plan means things will actually get done. Have you been dreaming of a flower garden for years but haven't gotten around to it? Wanting to create a beautiful play area for your kids but they'll probably be grown before it happens? Thought about learning how to grow fruit trees or herbs? If you write it down and have a plan, you'll be much more likely to do it.

Second, it will save you money. Going to a garden center in the Spring without a plan is like going to the grocery store without a list. You're going to spend more than you should have and you still won't have what you need.

Third, it will increase the amount of time you spend outside which is great for your health. Countless studies have shown the benefits of gardening, or any outdoor exercise for that matter. Creating gardening goals will increase the chances that you'll be spending more time outdoors this spring.

How to go about it?

First, get together with everyone in your household and make sure you're all on the same page. You might be planning a vegetable garden right where someone else wants to install horse shoe pits.

Second, write it down. I like doing this in my garden binder (more on that to come) but you just have to write it down where you can find it later.

Third, write out a plan. Don't just write down that you want to learn how to grow fruit trees. When should you plant the trees in your area? Better do a lot of research before then. Create a timeline and be sure to budget what you need for plants and tools.

This year, my two biggest goals are to start a fruit orchard and have it survive the first year. I've already read a whole book on it to get started. I also want to establish a new perennial herb garden since I lost my old one when we moved.

What about you? What are you wanting to do with your yard this year? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below.