A SAMPLE GUIDE TO EDIBLE GARDENING……
During this spring season it may be
more important than ever to grow your own food. It can be a fun and satisfying
activity that can nourish your body and your soul. Most seasoned vegetable
gardeners look forward to their time spent in their garden, because the rewards
are so great! And the therapy it provides is even better!!
Most edible plants prefer 6 or more
hours of sun, although leaf veggies (like lettuce) can grow with less sunlight.
Consider container gardens if you have a bright deck or patio. Edibles can also
be incorporated into your flowerbeds and ornamental plantings as well. Be sure
the area has good circulation or airflow.
The key ingredient to a vegetable
garden is the soil foundation. Amend the topsoil with compost or well-rotted
manure.
Base your crop selection on what
your family likes to eat. Plant your tall crops (like corn and climbers) on the
north side of the garden to prevent them from shading the other shorter plants.
Plant medium sized plants (like peppers, tomatoes….) towards the center. Short
crops, like carrots, radishes, and lettuce, should be planted on the south end.
Try to orient your garden from north to south for best sun coverage.
Here is a sample plant list for a
healthy family of four: 10 tomato plants, 4 cucumber plants, 12 broccoli plants,
8 cauliflower plants, 20 lettuce plants, 6 pepper plants, 10 spinach plants, 2
zucchini or squash plants, and essential herbs
Other essentials……Compost, shovel, hard rake
and tiller, Fertilizer—natural/organic or commercial, Tomato cages, stakes
I truly hope you enjoy the spring
and summer season and try your hand at growing fresh produce for your family.
See
you next month,
Sandi
Hillermann McDonald
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