So you want to plant some tomatoes, zucchini, garlic or another fresh vegetable? We’ve got you. Use this helpful guide to begin planting your first vegetable garden!
Whether you’re looking to get closer to nature or grow fresh veggies for your healthy meals, home garden-grown produce is known to have better flavor, texture, and overall nutrients! Did we mention it also counts as exercise?
Here are some essentials when beginning to plant your first vegetable garden.
1. Start Off Small
There is no sugar coating it, gardening requires a time commitment, and starting off too big, may make you feel overwhelmed. That’s why we suggest starting off with a small space. Plus, you can hone your craft (and your green thumb) as you expand. For beginners, we suggest starting with five types of vegetables to grow in a 6×6 foot vegetable garden.
2. Grow Vegetables You Eat Regularly
Think about your daily diet and dishes you cook on the reg. Your answer will give you some ideas as to what you should grow in your vegetable garden. However, you’ll need to make sure those specific vegetables can grow in your region and climate. So, do some reasearch at your local nursery, online and remember to read the descriptions on the seed packet, tag, or label.
3. Plant In Rich Soil
Just like your body, your plants need to best nutrients you can give them. For the best harvest, your vegetables will require rich and healthy soil. The tell-tale signs of rich soil is that it’s easy to dig and it drains well. A rule of thumb is that you want your soil to be dark, crumbly, and hearty. Although there are methods for improving soil over time, it’s very important to start off planting in rich soil.
4. Pest Control
Although pests are a nuisance, there are special solutions to keeping them away from your vegetables.
Weeds aren’t fun or pretty. So it’s best to try and keep them to a minimum. Clean straw, compost or plastic can keep weeds from getting out of control.
Animals such as rabbits and deer love fresh vegetables. Securing a large 8-foot-tall fence to keep deer from jumping in. Rabbits, require 6 inches beneath soil to keep from digging their way through!
For large amounts of destructive insects we suggest insecticidal soap sprays or natural pesticides. You can find these at most garden centers or in some cases, even make your own.