Getting a head start on planting your vegetable garden is a great way to break up the cold winter months and start to get into the spirit of spring. A lot of questions we hear from homeowners who are looking to start their gardens is, “When should I start planting my vegetables?” We have a step-by-step guide for when you should get started and how to ensure your garden is full of tasty treats.
When to Begin
Professionals recommend that you should begin planting your garden based on last year’s frost dates for your area – this will give you a good idea for a start date. The best way to go about doing so is to ask your neighbours who are gardening enthusiasts or visit the Old Farmer’s Almanac to give you a proper reading on your area. For the coming years, keep note of the date so you have an idea for the following spring.
Planting Indoors
Growing some of your veggies indoors in a covered and safe environment is a great way to kick-start your garden. By the time the weather warms up, you’ll already have a great handle on your garden. Naturally there are different requirements for different plants but the five main ingredients you’ll require for successful growth are; proper levels of light, a growing medium, the correct levels of humidity, air circulation and temperature.
If you have a room in your home that constantly receives a plethora of light throughout the day, then this is a good place to start. If you don’t, consider a growing lamp – they will create light and warmth. Do your research and find out what plants need more light than others.
The best veggies to grow indoors include; carrots, garlic, onions, herbs, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower and potatoes. Other vegetables like parsnips, radishes and kale need to sow into the ground initially because they won’t grow properly indoors. When you’re choosing your seeds, make sure you do extensive research on what veggies will plant best and how to maintain them properly throughout the course of the season.
Harvesting Your Vegetables
Since you’ve worked so hard throughout the season to create and maintain a beautiful garden, during your research process, make sure you’re making note of when your vegetables should be harvested. Different vegetables will peek at different times and will need to be harvested throughout the season. For example; brussels sprouts, garlic and melon are all plants that can be picked in Late November and December, where celery, corn and cucumber can be picked in the late summer and into October.
