This year I have decided to start planning my garden now. I know if I want successful garden, It is never too early to start going over what needs to be done.
Where you put your garden is important. Avoid trees and other shade that can block out the sun to your garden. Make sure the ground is even, so water will not pool around any plants.
It is also helpful to test the soil. If your soil is missing nutrients or needs a certain thing added to it, you will want to know that before you plant. This is very important, and can have a definite affect the number of vegetables you produce.
How big should your garden be?. 2500 square feet should be optimum to feed a small family. But a simple 300 foot garden can save money on the food bill, and produce a lot of food.
Although plenty of people make rectangle gardens, any shape is fine. I made a round garden just for my tomatoes last year. It just depends on the space you have for your garden, and how to use that space to get results. A L shaped garden works fine if you are looking for extra space. Terracing has become very popular recently. It is planting on a slope, or down a hill. Just make sure the terraces two feet wide, and use a log or board on the ends to stop any erosion.
If you are breaking ground for the first time, make sure to completely remove the grass. If this is not an option for you, plow over the grass and mix it with the dirt. It will rot and help give nutrients to the plants. Make sure to plow well. You do not want the grass coming back and competing with the other plants for water.
Make sure you have a faucet or hose close by. No matter how much rain you get, there will be days when the plants need extra water.
It is very important to choose carefully what you want to plant. I have made this mistake before. One year I chose three different kinds of peppers. I knew they were hot, but never imagined that I could not even eat them. I gave most of them away, and wasted plenty of energy growing them. Make sure that what you plant, is what you and your family actually like to eat.
It is a great idea to start the process early by planting the seedlings. You do not have to spend a lot of money to do this. You will need an egg carton, plastic wrap, and some new soil. Fill the egg carton with the soil. Put a whole in the bottom of each egg section for water drainage. Plant the seedlings, and loosely cover with plastic wrap. Set in an undisturbed place, where they can get some direct sunlight. You can also use things like a half of milk carton. Or a little yogurt cup, or even a small tin can. If you use your imagination, you can save money.
