Creating A Delicious Vegetable Garden To Enjoy

In tough economic times, growing your own vegetables can be a great way to supplement your food income. Have you been thinking about trying it for yourself? Perhaps you already have a regular garden and wish to convert it into something attractive and functional. Whatever your personal situation, this article has some great ideas to help you create a vegetable garden to help feed you and your family.

The first thing you need to consider is the sunlight available to your land. Watch it throughout the day, and observe if there are any trees, buildings, or landscaping that reduces the sunlight at any point during the day. The amount of sunlight hitting a piece of land may also change depending on the season. Once you are familiar with the sunlight on your land, you can then plan where to plant different vegetables, based on their needs.

Another important factor before you begin to plant is understanding your soil. Dig some up, and look to see if there is sand or clay present. You may also want to do a pH test on it.

Then, find out what grows well in your local area. Ask other people, or check with a local gardening club. You can also generally find great information like this at your library and on the web. You want to make certain that whatever you plant has the opportunity to complete the growing cycle.

Now, take this information and decide what you want to grow. The best choices will include foods that your family enjoys eating. If everyone likes potatoes but only one person likes turnips, you should definitely plant more potatoes. At this point, you will also want to consider what type of storage abilities you have or if you can simply use the food as it is harvested.

Plant your selections according to the needs of each vegetable. And, remember the height of your vegetables as they grow. Make sure that your taller plants will not block necessary sunlight for your root vegetables and other smaller plants.

Check to see how frequently your plants need to be watered. Most gardeners prefer to water early in the morning or in the evening. If you set up a sprinkler on a timer, this step should take minimal effort. Make certain to adjust the space being watered so that you don't waste water, which is becoming more and more expensive in many areas.

You should also have a plan to deal with weeds and pests. Some people prefer to go organic and use foods like garlic to help keep bugs away from other plants.

Lastly, know the signs of when your vegetables need to be harvested. Some things, like zucchini, produce for long periods of time. Others, like potatoes, must be harvested all at once.

Now that you have read this article, you have some great ideas on how to create a beautiful vegetable garden, no matter where you live. With a bit of education and time, you will be growing a beautiful garden in no time. The best part is that you will be helping to sustain your family and reduce your food bill!