Plowing wet ground in winter

I want to say a word or two about plowing wet ground in January and  February.

While conventional wisdom says plowing wet ground -- which includes roto-tilling and spading too -- is a no-no, plowing wet during these two months is okay and, if you demand a scientific reason all I can say is that in the colder climes there's plenty of time for the ground to freeze and thaw and thus break up any clods.

When I was but a green lad in planting by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, my mentor -- an old Dutchman with twinkly blue eyes -- gave me the tip about plowing and it's never failed me when I manage to get it done! Of course if you have a big garden you need a tractor with a breaking plow or the ability to convince a farmer to plow it for you. Now a small plot can be done with a tiller or breaking fork.

Here's the caution: If you can't get it plowed -- wet or dry --  by Feb. 29 then the plot MUST BE DRY after March 1 or you'll be battling mud clods all summer long!

Give it a try and let me know how it comes out for you.