Garden Rx

We took a couple of trees out behind the shed and voila- -space and sun! Perfect opportunity for a “Back 40”.   The side yard is full of annuals, perennials and shrubbery, so not too much room for crops. It may have been premature, but I planted this garden on Good Friday. The picture below was taken that day. Many of you are clearing spaces, but unsure of what to plant. Well, here is what I am doing–

1. Decide what you like to eat and use for cooking like veggies and herbs.

2. Make the list, and get seeds for veggies like okra, corn, and green beans. Buy transplants which have already been nursed by a professional–eggplant, tomatoes, peppers

3. Clear your space and make a rough plan for where things will go. Tall towards the back, just like taking a picture!

4. Plant. Dig a decent hole, gently tear off bottom where roots have settled (if transplant) and set into ground.

Here is my list.

1. Bush bean seeds and lots of them. I’ll plant them at weekly intervals for the next few weeks.

2. 3 different types of heirloom tomatoes, a total of 10. They do need stakes to keep them upright. Heirlooms taste good and can be found at local garden centers.

3.  Bell peppers, 5 red. They are more expensive in grocery store!

4.  3 white eggplant transplants. I am the only one who eats them so I thought I’d try the white!

5.  Basil planted beside the tomatoes. Local expert swears this gives more flavor.

6.  Okra, from seed, don’t go crazy–a row or two will have you picking daily…I make Obie Mae’s gumbo weekly during summer.

7.  Zuchinni and yellow squash both from seed and easy to grow.Don’t pay more for seedlings at garden center!

8. Marigolds, big ones. Marigolds make an excellent companion plant for pest reduction. Will toss in Cosmos, sunflowers and some zinnias in between rows since it’s warmed up. These make pretty summer table decorations.

9. Corn will be planted from seed…really easy.  I may plant it in the front yard!

 

That is my “Back 40” and I’d like to hear about yours!

Reports to follow.

ML