10 Tips for starting your Vegetable Garden
The growing season is here and nature has burst into life. Now is the time to start growing fresh, healthy veggies in your own backyard. Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of space, you’ll be surprised how easily you can grow quite a lot of food in small gardens!
Growing your own home vegetable garden promotes sustainability while allowing you to cultivate your own produce. This reduces reliance on commercial agriculture and the carbon footprint associated with it, minimising the need for extensive land use and the energy-intensive processes involved in large-scale farming. By growing your own produce, you’re in control. You control the use of pesticides and fertilisers and can promote a healthier environment. This sustainable approach not only provides you with fresh, nutritious food but also fosters a deeper connection with the food you consume and the planet.
Tip 1 - Upcycle items to build creative growing spaces
If you are just starting, upcycling or re-using items can be a quick, fun, and affordable way to create growing spaces at home. These could include things like planter pots, washing machine drums, barrels, flexi tubs, watering cans, wheelbarrows, or planters made from pallet wood.
Tip 2 - A good soil is the key to success!
Good soil is the key to success so make sure you add nutrient-rich, quality compost and organic matter to your garden, whether you are just starting to grow in a new bed or to replenish the soil in a previously used growing spot.
Tip 3 - If a first-time grower, buy seedlings from your local nursery
If it is your first time growing, make it easy for yourself and buy seedlings from a trusted, local nursery rather than growing from seeds. This prevents potential disappointment and your supplier will have lots of knowledge so you can pick their brain.
Tip 4 - Ensure the plants you buy are suited to your region
Choose easy-to-grow veggies and varieties proven to grow and produce well in our region.
Tip 5 - Choose a warm and sunny location
Select a warm and sunny spot in your garden that is sheltered from wind, as most of our veggies love 6-8 hours of sun per day.
Tip 6 - Plant in the morning
Plant early in the morning so your chosen greens won’t wilt instantly. Water in well and watch them grow!
Tip 7 - Plant near flowers and herbs
Plant flowers and herbs with them or nearby to attract bees and other pollinators. Now you have fresh herbs for cooking and a beautiful-looking garden!
Tip 8 - Ensure you water and feed your plants adequately
Make sure to water and feed your plants throughout their growing time to get strong, healthy plants that produce the biggest, most delicious foods.
Tip 9 - Mulch your soil
Mulching the soil will help retain water, suppress weeds and protect from sun, wind, and heavy rain.
Tip 10 - Protect your plants from pests
Protect your plants from pests and diseases by providing nutrients and water to keep them strong. Use netting, barriers and traps to keep off those pesky pests!
P.S. Harvest your fruit and veggies when ripe, about the size they would be if you’d buy them in a shop.
Enjoy beautiful, healthy, nutrient-dense produce from your own backyard!
Written by Mieke Verschoor, Sustainable Taranaki’s Workshop Coordinator & Facilitator.
