I probably do this the hard way. Don't trust computers either, but have a copy in the computer. I also print out a hard copy to take with me to the garden. Also place in the external hard drive just in case. Also the way I do this gives me a map of each bed.
Each document of crosses is in alphabetical order so they can be planted in same way.
This document is used mainly for the planting process. It also gives me a quick view of
how many of the same crosses I make, the number of seeds each generated and the percentage of germination.
Each bed is labeled by year, as 2009-bed 1,2,3, etc. Same with each following years. Directions at which I begin to put in rows is listed as south to north, east to west, etc., and where the entire bed is located, such as near roses, or whatever reminds me. Each row is labeled with a mini blind as 1,2,3 etc. at beginning of each row.
I found it much easier for me to glance at the paper copy for a particular cross and locate them when the rows are numbered.
Also a mini blind with the cross for each one in the row. So a lot of mini blinds in use, just
in case winter heave of soil happens or the wild critters decide to move them. Plus I have the list, again just in case. I know, I kinda do overkill with this, after experiencing several
mishaps.
On the documents, I list each cross separately in the way they are planted.
A cross in Bed 1, Row 1, plant 1 will look on paper like B1R1-1 with cross written out in short version instead of numbers and letters as (linda x bella) for linda beck x bella sera.
With space on paper after each entry, I can list size and other details out from the name,
as I look at their details, take photos, and measure. I wear an apron with many pockets to
place camera, measuring tape, etc. in, or a cleaning bucket with dividers if I have more
tools to work with.
The one thing that is a problem is the tags are short, about 4 inches in the ground, and when they get their two year growth it is hard to see them, so now I am going to take the
excellent idea from those of you who suggested the pvc pipes that are taller, with the mini
blinds inside.
I have recently been going through the process of choosing which crosses to make
next season. I love spending time doing this. It keeps the daylily interest ongoing
during the cold winter months.
I see there are many different methods of doing this. Whatever fits or works best for each.
