With the growing season moving into summer, gardeners who had planting fever in the spring should soon be reaping the so-called fruits of their labor.

Many gardeners possess a positive attitude and share a love for growing healthy vegetables. They take pride in their work, keeping their gardens neat, clean and weed free. Great effort is taken to establish a meticulous garden full of homegrown vegetables.

Some gardeners have a competitive spirit, toiling daily in their plots of land in order to have the best garden possible.

Gardeners do not whine or complain about hard work because they are disciplined and enjoy what they are doing. Some find that working hard in the garden can be therapeutic - it lifts their spirits and gives them the satisfaction of watching their efforts (literally) grow.

Several gardeners have told me that they plant and maintain their gardens simply for the exercise and fresh air.

Other gardeners go so far as to transform their plots into works of art. These people are interested in aesthetics in addition to the satisfaction of growing their own food.

Practical gardeners use common sense when organizing their plots. Like good farmers, they must also implement a conservation plan for the land - such as using mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and prevent weed growth. As the mulch decomposes, it puts organic matter back into the soil.

It is hard work maintaining a garden when the hot summer heat and high humidity slows everyone down. Weeds seem to be growing everywhere and their removal from the garden is a constant chore. Proper planning can put gardeners a step ahead of unwanted weeds, insects and diseases.

Gardening can also become a group activity. Families can spend quality time together sharing the duties of maintaining and raising a successful crop. There are also various garden clubs in the region that are open for new members.

There can be great satisfaction from growing your own vegetables, but it takes hard work throughout the summer to get it done. The task of gardening is successful if a person is willing to follow a plan and keep a regular schedule - even when it is very uncomfortable outside.

Ron Fodor is district manager of the Butler County Conservation District.