The first step to consider is the size of your garden. To determine this, decide how many vegetables you want to grow for you and your family? If you have lots of room and you love to garden, a big garden may be your choice ‐ you can always give away what you don't need. If you plan on canning or freezing, a larger garden should be considered. Make a list with the vegetables you want to grow, and how much – See the yield chart on page 7. You can then determine the area required for each vegetable.
Location: Once you have decided what size to make your garden, you will need to select a location. If possible, pick a spot with full sun that is not shaded by trees or buildings. If you have to plant where partial shade may affect plants, be sure to plant shade tolerant plants in that area. Lack of sun can keep some plants to moist and encourage disease, slugs and other pests. If you live in a very hot climate, this may not be an issue. Here is a list of important factors when picking your location:
•Full sun with southern exposure is the best.
•Best soil on your property ‐ soil conditions can vary drastically on the same property.
•Avoid low areas subject to flooding and constant water saturation ‐ too wet and plant roots will suffer.
•Avoid areas where the ground is too sandy or gravel ‐ water may drain to quickly.
•Watering supply ‐ If your garden is 300 feet away from the closest water supply, water pressure may be an issue, as well as hoses and the size of hose required ‐ at 300 feet, you may need 3/4" hose to provide sufficient water and pressure. If your garden is uphill from your water source, this will further reduce pressure.
Location in relation to your home is not critical. Don't think that a garden close to the house will deter deer and other animals. They will come right up to your home at night. A herb garden near the house is very handy when you need a few herbs for cooking.
Location: Once you have decided what size to make your garden, you will need to select a location. If possible, pick a spot with full sun that is not shaded by trees or buildings. If you have to plant where partial shade may affect plants, be sure to plant shade tolerant plants in that area. Lack of sun can keep some plants to moist and encourage disease, slugs and other pests. If you live in a very hot climate, this may not be an issue. Here is a list of important factors when picking your location:
•Full sun with southern exposure is the best.
•Best soil on your property ‐ soil conditions can vary drastically on the same property.
•Avoid low areas subject to flooding and constant water saturation ‐ too wet and plant roots will suffer.
•Avoid areas where the ground is too sandy or gravel ‐ water may drain to quickly.
•Watering supply ‐ If your garden is 300 feet away from the closest water supply, water pressure may be an issue, as well as hoses and the size of hose required ‐ at 300 feet, you may need 3/4" hose to provide sufficient water and pressure. If your garden is uphill from your water source, this will further reduce pressure.
Location in relation to your home is not critical. Don't think that a garden close to the house will deter deer and other animals. They will come right up to your home at night. A herb garden near the house is very handy when you need a few herbs for cooking.
