Gardening Tips For Vegetables

Gardening tips are everywhere. But, can you really know that gardening tip is right for you? You have probably read everything about planting, growing, fertilizing, harvesting, etc. and still don’t know the answer. It’s time to take a second look.

Follow the sunshine. Most edible plants, such as many fruits, vegetables, and herbs, require at least 6 hours in the sunlight to thrive. Be sure to lay in those early morning or early afternoon sunniest hours possible. This will give your plants the best chance to grow well. Also, be sure to be near a well-planted water supply.

Choose the right type of soil. Many gardeners are surprised when they realize how important good soil quality is to the health of your plantings. Soil that is not adequately amended with compost or fertilizer will not provide the proper nutrients needed to stay healthy and prosper. Your gardening tips will also tell you that over-fertilization is detrimental to plants. Instead, opt for a well-balanced soil that contains sufficient amounts of Nitrogen (for root development), Potassium (for root growth), Phosphorus (for plant growth) and Calcium (for fruit and leaf color).

Plant plants according to the seasons. While most people think of planting in springtime, many edible plant gardens are actually planted in late winter or early fall. In these colder months, many plants experience reduced blooming or leaf color. If you are planting for fall Colorados State Fair, be sure to plant your garden a week or two before the last frost. You’ll find that cucumbers, peppers, melons, squash, carrots, onions, spinach, and turnips, among other edibles, are best planted in the fall.

Mulch is another important factor in your vegetable gardening success. Mulch prevents the stems of tender plants from suffering due to cold weather. However, do not let mulch become over-dried and turn brown, as this can harm your plants. Mulching your garden will ensure that weeds do not grow, and your plants will thrive because their roots will receive adequate water and nutrients from the soil.

Most gardening tips tell you that young plants need light. However, one gardening tip that should be taken on at all times, especially in the early stages of your gardening career, is that young plants need regular, even hours of bright light. Ask your local nursery about horticultural grade clay pots that are available in most gardening supply stores. This type of pot will keep your young plants well-lit, which will ensure that they grow at a maximum rate.