Back to Basics, Veggie Garden Edition

So, you want to start a vegetable garden but need help figuring out where to start. Don’t worry, you're not the only one rowing along on this boat. Here are a few tips to help you get started. 

Find a Suitable Location and Plan Your Garden: Look for a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure the area has good drainage and is accessible for watering and maintenance. 

Decide what vegetables you want to grow. Consider your area's climate and choose vegetables suitable for your growing season. Determine the space for each plant and plan your layout. Some easy-to-grow vegetables would include: lettuce, tomatoes, radishes, green beans, peppers, and carrots. 

As a beginner, starting with seedlings is often easier than starting from seeds. You can purchase seedlings from a local nursery or garden center. If you prefer starting from seeds, follow the instructions on the seed packets regarding planting depth and spacing. Make sure to give them a nice watering after planting. 

Adding a layer of mulch or wood chips can help regulate soil temperature, conserve moisture, and help stop weeds from sprouting. 

Maintenance 

When watering vegetables deeply and less frequently to encourage deeper root growth. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to disease and root rot. Keep in mind when it has rained in the area to avoid accidental over-watering.  

Fertilizing

Use a balanced organic fertilizer or compost to provide essential nutrients to the soil. Follow the recommended application rates for the specific fertilizer you choose. 

Regularly inspect your garden for weeds and remove them promptly to prevent competition for nutrients and water. Be careful not to disturb the roots of your vegetable plants while weeding.

Harvest

When your vegetables are mature and ready to be picked, the fun part comes harvesting! Follow the specific guidelines for each vegetable, as harvesting times can vary. Regular harvesting encourages more production.

Plus always remember what the carrot said to the other carrot at the party, lettuce turnip the beet!!