Where I Went Wrong When I first Started My Garden
I planted too many of each vegetable. I built raised garden beds. 20' long and 3' wide. I planted long ways, Bad !
Now we plant a greater variety and plant crossways, leaving a space for growth with wider rows and it also allows a mid-season replant.
I put onions is their own bed, and found it's easier to buy sweet corn than to grow it!
I plant vine plants (squash, melons, cukes, etc. in lower beds.
What I Did to Fix It
I an now positioning my beds so I can use a tent type cover of plastic for a year round garden. I do not have to heat it in the winter, in Michigan. I have a small htg stove in case, but it stays warm enough.
There are several good books for year round growing. I also built a large compost area off to the side. The soil content in gardens always shrink! I move soil annually and add compost to the bottom of the mix.
I have gardened for over 20 years and learn more every year. I also have just built a greenhouse on the front of our home. I will use containers and grow boxes to grow in.
Tips & tricks
- I change out/around soil annually. I also start my plants and move them to grow locations.
- I use my State Ag. center for information - they WANT to help! And they do!
- Gardeners are an instant brotherhood. They will shard seeds and often trade plants.
- The Amish in our area are VERY helpful and gracious. Give them a try.
