Sustainable Front Yard Gardens

Where have I been for more than 6 months?
I have been putting together a grassroots movement to change our city front yard landscape ordinance, which currently only allows for primarily low ground cover or turf. We are asking that the ordinance allow diverse front yard gardens, which are sustainable and can help address energy conservation, resource depletion, hunger, food security, and critical environmental issues. We have asked that they not put restrictions on the growing of annuals and perennials, which may include fruits and vegetables. The city has moved in our direction and we hope for full city council approval of our proposed ordinance amendment in the middle of March .

So this has taken my time and my energy. But I have saved some of myself for the garden. I had wonderful success with my perennial gardens. My veggie garden was a little more challenged because we had prolonged temperatures over 100 degrees (many up over 110 degrees) for over two weeks. It was miserable and my veggie garden felt the same. I had the worst year ever for tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplant. The peppers seemed to do fine and the luffa vine was extremely happy as it topped my elder tree with its hanging fruit.

Now this winter, we have had over two weeks of freezing temperatures. Mother Nature is striking out to say - STOP! YOU ARE KILLING ME!
So, I have lost ( I believe from the looks of them ) several perennials this winter. My lettuce decided to go back to the soil too.

Right now, I have onions waiting to be planted. I have pimento seeds from Laura that sprouted in transport from Alabama which are ready over an inch high. I have broccoli raab and chinese cabbage seeds in their sprout bag right on. I will start some peas this week too - and more lettuce. So, that is my update for now. Gardening is truly a stress reliever!