The field sequence

See the work, then move through it in order.

Illustrated field sequence for how to prepare a garden for the next season, showing the key decisions and physical steps.
  1. 01Record what grew well and what did not.
  2. 02Remove diseased material appropriately.
  3. 03Leave healthy habitat where it supports the garden.
  4. 04Test or amend soil based on observed needs.
  5. 05Protect soil with mulch or cover crops.
  6. 06Clean and store tools, supports, and irrigation parts.
  7. 07Order only the seeds the next plan requires.

Common mistakes

Compare the failure point before changing the plan.

×Clearing every stem immediatelyIt replaces observation with an assumption.
×Composting heavily diseased material carelesslyIt creates work the garden cannot sustain.
×Buying next season before reviewing this oneIt solves the visible symptom without checking the system.