Grow Your Own Fruits and Vegetables

Part One: Supplies

Spring is here and with it you have an opportunity to save some time and money.  Gardens are not just reserved for those with large yards and extra space.  Everyone from apartment dwellers to home owners can in fact grow their own food with a little time and the right resources.  


Containers: 


Planter boxes, wooden barrels, hanging baskets and large flowerpots are just some of the containers that can be used. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your containers. 


Choosing the Best Soil: 

To create a successful container garden, the most important ingredient is good potting soil. Choose a mixture that provides a good combination of excellent drainage and aeration. 

"Look for 'professional' on the label," suggests Dr. Susan Hamilton, who oversees the University of Tennessee Gardens. "That word puts the potting soil in a whole different category. You'll be paying a little bit more, but it will be high quality."

Bagged soils are pretty cost-effective because all the guesswork has been taken out of it. Professional blends have already been charged with starter nutrients and pH adjusted.

Seeds:

I just ordered my seed packets from The Seed Savers Exchange.  Each packet of seeds was only $2.75.  Each one of those packets has more than enough seeds to feed a family.  In fact I will likely have more transplants than I know what to do with.  

Now that you have your seeds, it's time to plant them.  Here are some excellent articles that will tell you everything you need to know.
http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/m1245.html
http://www.reneesgarden.com/articles/start_seeds.html

This one is specifically on organic seed starting.
http://www.organicgardening.com/learn-and-grow/starting-seeds-indoors

If videos are more your style here are a few to get you started.  
http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-Start-Seeds-Indoors-261401505
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ve9iHounak


Plants:


If you are short on time seeds might not be the best choice.  You can also buy plants that are ready to go.  Doug Green has some great tips on how to pick your plants here.


Timing:


Vegetable gardening planting times can be a little tricky for beginner gardeners.  Here are a few tips of trade to get you started. 

For more tips and best practices.  Check out this helpful Beginner Gardening Blog for everything from what to plant to how to plant it.  Enjoy!!!