Not all plants belong in raised beds - start with these

Author

Lisa
May 07, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Good morning,

Weeding isn’t exactly the highlight of gardening, is it? But those pesky things gotta go! Here's a tip: focus on small areas at a time. Regular "weed whacking" sessions will keep your garden in tip-top shape without leaving you feeling like you just ran a marathon.

CHERRY PICKED - JUST FOR YOU

Some vegetables are more suitable than others for cultivation in raised beds. These are typically lower maintenance, more resistant to pests, and grow over shorter periods. If you want to grow vegetables that thrive in raised garden beds, start with these!

CAN YOU DIG IT?

We’ve become accustomed to the advances of the modern world with things like electricity and commercial products, but gardening was done successfully long before these things were around. Want to become more self-sufficient and live in a more sustainable way? Give these hacks a try!

BITE-SIZED GARDEN TALES

The morning sun cast a warm glow across Mark's garden as he knelt on the damp earth. May 7th, a date he circled on the calendar every year, marked the official start of planting season.

Last year, fueled by excitement and a little too much ambition, he had crammed every vegetable variety imaginable into his raised beds. Seedlings fought for precious sunlight and space, resulting in a tangled mess that produced a disappointing harvest. This year, Mark was determined for a different outcome.

He grabbed a scrap of paper and became a garden architect. Each row was meticulously planned.

Sun-loving tomatoes and peppers found their prime placement, while lettuce and spinach, craving shade, would nestle comfortably near the base of the sunflowers. Every seed was meticulously spaced, ensuring each plant would have room to breathe and thrive.

As Mark dropped the seeds into the earth, a gentle breeze stirred the air, carrying the earthy scent of freshly turned soil. It was a world away from the sterile atmosphere of the supermarket produce section.

Here, he nurtured life with his own hands, creating a connection with the earth that felt both grounding and empowering. Planting wasn't just about rows and seeds; it was a lesson in patience, planning, and respecting the delicate balance of nature.

Mark smiled, knowing that with a little care and a whole lot of love, his garden would soon be bursting with life, a testament to the simple joy of cultivating his own food.

IN A NUTSHELL

Mark learned from last year's crowded garden. A successful harvest starts with planning and respecting each plant's needs. A well-thought-out design sets the stage for a bountiful season.

DIGGING DEEPER

What was considered ‘hot’ in the early 2000s is now considered normal or even mild compared to today's temperatures, and this gradual increase of heat can be detrimental to crops that are sensitive to extreme temperatures.

Luckily, there are several heat-tolerant plants that can withstand the summer sun's intensity much better than others.

DAILY DOSE OF DIRT

Since May is prime time for starting many vegetables and herbs from seed indoors, this challenge is perfect for both beginners and seasoned gardeners!

The Challenge:

Pick 2-3 Vegetables or Herbs: Choose 2-3 varieties you'd love to grow from seed. Pumpkins, squash, cucumbers, and herbs like dill and cilantro are all great choices for starting indoors in May.

Gather Your Supplies: You'll need seed trays or pots with drainage holes, seed starting mix, water, and your chosen seeds.

Plant & Care: Follow the specific planting instructions for your chosen seeds (seed depth, spacing, etc.). Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and place the trays/pots in a warm, sunny location (a south-facing window is ideal).

This challenge is a great way to get a jumpstart on your edible garden and witness the magic of germination firsthand.

INTO THE WEEDS

Successful raised bed gardening requires good drainage. After all, all that moisture needs to go somewhere. If you’re thinking about installing a raised bed, start by nailing the perfect base.

NEVER STOP GROWING

Want even more gardening tips to transform your thumb from brown to green? Browse all past newsletters to unearth some hidden gems you might have missed the first time around. Completely free and available 24/7!

UNTIL NEXT BLOOM…

As always, thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to read this newsletter! Question or comments - just reply.

Happy planting!