One of the most important aspects of gardening is water, which makes up 90 percent of a plant’s weight. Plants that we grow for their fruit, including tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers, need at least eight and do better with 10 hours of sunlight. Plants that we grow for their leaves-including leafy greens such as lettuce, kale, chard, and spinach-and plants that we grow for their storage roots (such as radishes, turnips, and beets) can be grown in as little as six hours of sunlight but do much better with eight hours or more. Most vegetables need at least eight hours of direct sunlight.

Avoid areas near trees and large shrubs that will compete with the garden for sunlight, water, and nutrients. They need sunlight, water, air, soil, fertilizer, and care.Ĭhoose a convenient site in full sun with easy access to water and fertile, well-drained soil. Success, however, takes more than just a place to grow the vegetables. Add a few radishes and carrots, also grown in 12-inch containers, for spice and sweetness, and you have a good start on a delicious salad. For example, enough lettuce for a salad can be grown in a 12-inch pot on the back deck. Many vegetables can be grown in containers. A vegetable garden can be in the ground or in a planting bed, but it doesn’t have to be. Growing vegetables takes some space, but not necessarily acres. Don’t be discouraged if the first attempt isn’t a huge success. With patience and practice, your skills will improve every year. It doesn’t take a lot of money, time, or talent, although some of each would be helpful. The end result is fresh produce to eat, share, or sell.Īnyone who is willing to invest some time every day or two to nurture the plants can grow a vegetable garden. Vegetable gardening consists of selecting a site, planning the garden, preparing the soil, choosing the seeds and plants, planting a crop, and nurturing the plants until they are ready for harvest.

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