Ever feel like the cost of supermarket produce discourages you from buying as much as you’d like? Why not give gardening a go and grow your own, far cheaper, fresh, and flavorful vegetables? This guide will introduce you to a range of plants that are a breeze to grow, making your home garden planning more straightforward.
Lettuce often takes the lead, ripening at the outset of summer. It thrives in cooler climates, and varying the types you plant can ensure you have an abundant supply for your salads. If a part of your garden is shaded during the peak heat of the day, it would be ideal for lettuce cultivation.
Growing herbs doesn’t necessitate a garden, given their minimal space requirements. Many choose to maintain a modest assortment of herbs in pots adorning their window sills. Simply snip off the needed amount, and the plant will continue to flourish.
Squash, while healthful, does demand significant garden real estate. Summer squash, which isn’t much of a climber and produces abundant squash per plant, is perfect for steaming or stir fry. Aim to harvest it when it’s young and tender. If you’re partial to acorn or butternut squash for baking, remember to allot approximately eight square feet for each plant.
Green beans are a cinch to grow and incredibly versatile. Certain varieties yield bountiful crops for over a month. You can freeze or can surplus beans for winter consumption.
Growing potatoes can be more challenging than expected. They necessitate fertile, well-drained soil and hill cultivation to avert sunburn. There are a wealth of online resources with comprehensive potato growing guides.
Tomatoes are versatile enough to be grown almost anywhere, by anyone. If garden space is scarce, consider cultivating tomatoes in patio pots or using trendy hanging planters. Tomatoes are delicious in summer salads and sandwiches, with surplus tomatoes perfect for making and freezing sauce or paste for later.
Cucumbers are another effortless-to-grow summer favorite. They add crunch to salads, can be used to make various types of pickles, and even serve as a natural remedy for tired eyes.
Strawberries, a delightfully sweet summer treat, are also easy to grow. June berries ripen early in the summer, although they typically cease bearing when the summer heat intensifies.
Cultivating your own produce doesn’t require herculean efforts. Use this guide to help you design an optimal garden for you and your family. Enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your labor, right from your own backyard!