Dear Utah –

I love New Years’ Resolutions!!!  I think the start of a new year is a great opportunity to make much needed (or maybe just desired) personal change.  The year 2020, with all of its challenges, had one very bright point – at least from my perspective – many new people decided to try gardening for the first time!  Or, if you’re like me, your garden has never looked better!  I love that the people of Utah flocked to their gardens in 2020 for mental R&R.  As my friend says, you don’t need a vaccine to visit your vegetables!

So out of sheer excitement for the start of 2021, I want to challenge all new and existing gardeners!  I challenge you to explore new online resources in the quest to improve your gardening ability!  I challenge you to carve out time in your busy life to explore and enjoy your garden.  I challenge you to grow something new this year and share your discoveries with you neighbors, friends, family and fellow gardeners.

I challenge everyone to sign up for IPM Pest Advisories.

I challenge everyone to obsess over the new Utah Vegetable and Pest Management website , or listen to a Homegrown Horticulture Podcast or watch a Facebook Live-stream or join the Utah Gardening Experts Facebook group.  And hey, if you’re an accomplished gardener, spend some time responding to posts by gardening newbies.  Be part of the Utah gardening community and strive to make a positive contribution in 2021 to this place we all call home.

Happy gardening everyone, may the forecast be with you!