It doesn’t matter if you have a backyard or just a balcony, anyone can start a vegie garden and reap the benefits of being out in nature. You might be wondering how to start or what to grow, so here are some tips.
Location, location, location
Choosing the right location can be difficult as you’ve got to factor in the sun, drainage and convenience. Vegies generally need around six to eight hours of sun a day, so choose a spot with this in mind. Avoid areas that may become waterlogged, like at the bottom of a hill or an indentation in the ground. And choose a location that is close by so you don’t forget to water, weed or harvest!
Choose your vegies carefully
Most vegies need a certain amount of space in order to thrive, so before you start, work out what vegies you want to grow, how much space they need, and what plants they are compatible with. Keep in mind that some plants, like tomatoes and zucchini, will continue to produce throughout the season, and other plants like carrots and radish will only produce once. Keep taller plants towards the back or in the centre and be mindful of their potential to shade smaller plants during the day.
Perennial herbs such as rosemary, oregano, thyme, and mint, silverbeet and other leafy greens, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, radishes, and spring onions are perfect for beginners.
Garlic, lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, parsley, spinach, carrot, and chives are some plants that are ideal to plant at this time of year. Tomatoes, capsicum, cucumber, potatoes and pumpkin are best planted in the spring.
