GROWING TIPS
Leaf'd Box | January 17, 2023
Spring will be here before you know it, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to get your hands dirty and start growing a vegetable garden! Gardening is an incredibly rewarding hobby that can provide fresh produce for you and your family all year round. Whether you’re a gardening novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find plenty of tips and advice here to help you plan and grow your best spring vegetable garden ever.
BENEFITS OF GARDENING
Gardening is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors, while also saving money on grocery bills and getting some exercise. Growing your own vegetables is also a great way to ensure that you and your family are eating fresh, nutritious produce. And the best part? You don’t need a lot of space to get started. Even a small plot of land or a container garden can yield plenty of delicious fruits and veggies.
Another great benefit of gardening is that it can be a great source of stress relief. Working in the garden is a great way to unplug from technology and connect with the natural world. Gardening is also a great way to teach kids about the importance of eating healthy, while also teaching them about nature and the environment.
TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN
Before you start planting your garden, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure that you have enough space for all of the vegetables you want to grow. Start by assessing the size of your garden plot and decide which vegetables will grow best in your particular space. If you’re short on space, you can always opt for a container garden or vertical gardening. Our boxes come in three sizes so that no matter how much space you have, you'll always have the right option.
Once you’ve determined the size of your garden, it’s time to decide which vegetables you’d like to grow (and which vegetables actually grow well in your climate). Our SeedGurus are experts in this. They factor in your climate, how much space you have, and the time of year to create a curated selection of seasonal veggies and herbs. For example, did you know that watermelon plants can grow up to 20 feet? These aren't the best if you're doing a container garden (so they're not in our small boxes, but they are in our XL boxes). We take the hard work out of sorting these sort of details out so you can get right to the best part -- planting and enjoying your garden!
It’s also important to make sure that you’re planting your vegetables in the right location where your vegetables will get enough sunlight and water.
SOIL AND PLANT SELECTION
Once you’ve planned out your garden, it’s time to prepare the soil. You can test the pH levels of the soil and add fertilizer (aka plant food!). If you’re planting in a container, you can purchase soil that is specially formulated for container gardening. Till your soil so it's nice and soft, ready for your new plant babies.
WHEN TO PLANT A VEGETABLE GARDEN AND HOW
When it comes to planting your vegetables, timing is everything. Make sure to check your local weather forecast to determine the best time to plant. It’s also important to consider the average last frost date in your area, as well as any expected rain or cold weather.
When you’re ready to start planting, dig a hole so that the plant’s root ball can gently fit in without sticking out or falling too deep in.
The top of the root ball should align to the soil level. Place your plant in the hole and gently compact the soil around it to tuck it into place. Make sure to water the plants thoroughly after planting and consistently thereafter while the plants are young -- making sure the soil doesn't dry out during this delicate stage.
If you’re planting seeds, make sure to read the instructions carefully. Some seeds require special soil or planting techniques, so make sure to check out the QR codes on our packets for easy instructions and a how to video.
COMMON VEGETABLES TO GROW IN A HOME GARDEN
When it comes to planning your vegetable garden, it’s important to consider which vegetables do best in your particular climate. Some of the most popular vegetables to grow in a home garden include tomatoes, peppers, squash, beans, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, potatoes, and onions.
Tomatoes are a great choice for beginner gardeners, as they are relatively easy to grow and produce a large harvest. Peppers are also a great choice, as they produce a large harvest and come in a variety of colors and flavors. Squash is another popular option, as it is easy to grow and produces a large harvest.
GARDEN CARE AND MAINTENANCE TIPS
Once you’ve planted your garden, it’s important to take care of it throughout the growing season. Make sure to water your plants regularly and fertilize them as needed. You'll also want to weed your garden regularly to keep it free of weeds and pests.
It’s also important to keep an eye on your plants for any signs of disease or pests.
If you spot any signs of disease, make sure to remove the affected plants and use an appropriate pest control product.
If you’re growing vegetables in containers, make sure to check the soil regularly for signs of dryness.
PEST CONTROL AND DISEASE PREVENTION
It’s important to take steps to protect your garden from pests and disease. Make sure to keep your garden free of weeds and debris, as these can attract pests. You can also use natural pest control methods, such as companion planting and the use of beneficial insects.
GARDEN TOOLS AND SUPPLIES
There are some great tools and supplies that make gardening easier. Make sure to have a spade, trowel, rake, and hoe on hand to help with soil preparation and planting. You can also invest in a hoe and cultivator for weeding and tilling the soil.
You’ll also need a watering can, a hose, or an irrigation system for watering your plants.
A pair of garden gloves is also a must-have for keeping your hands clean and protected.
It’s also important to have a variety of garden supplies on hand, such as soil amendments, fertilizers, mulch, and compost. These can help to improve the quality of your soil and provide essential nutrients for your plants.
CONCLUSION - GARDENING TIPS FOR MAXIMUM SUCCESS
Gardening can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and provide fresh, nutritious produce for you and your family. With a little bit of planning and the right tools and supplies, you can create a beautiful garden that will produce a bountiful harvest all season long. Check out our gardening education kits and plant subscriptions to get started with your easiest garden ever! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these gardening tips will help you plan and grow your best spring vegetable garden ever.
Good luck and Happy Gardening!