I’m pretty late this year for my vegetable garden. We did have a mild winter but the spring goes very slow and still is cold…even yesterday night it was 2 degree only !

When I started – 2012 – to grow my own vegetables I kept a diary where I write down dates & general info. I must admit it’s helped to remember things, not to do things, keeping certain addresses, growing calendar etc. etc.

It can be very inspiring too ; draw what you want, make your photo collage .

I start with designing/planning my vegetable garden. I have a background in design but not in garden design! Regardless, I thought I’d give it a go.

I’m good at lots of things but, building things is not strong point of me. Thanks to our gardener and my husband it became a reality …lucky me.

 

At the same time I read, analyze vegetables and their needs, winter and rainy days are perfect to make your theory /home works ; try to plant the plants in a way that you can utilize every inch of space. Consider the practical issues like which plants will be planted where ? How can you arrange them to make your garden more efficient and convenient.

 

My garden is formed in 3 section;

• A greenhouse for the plants with extra needs

A greenhouse was a necessity ; day and night temperature difference quite a big for spring and summer in Holland. You need the keep things in a greenhouse to keep them a life.

• Grow vertical for beans/peas

many plants, such as peas, beans like to climb on a support. Providing them with support in the form of nets or trellis increases the area of the garden.

• A high box for local undemanding vegetables /herbs

I designed my box with sitting height to help my self heightened ergonomic benefits…

Don’t forget our small friends rabbits ! They love green vegetables too.

Local and native vegetables that are grown in your region should be your first priority as they are easiest to grow. Generally such crops; spinach, lettuce, fresh herbs, chards etc. are also resistant to pests, diseases and local weather conditions.

Expecially beginners skip to high maintenance exotic vegetable for the first time… Start to experience next time… Do not forget, experience really is the best teacher.

 

There is a lot of information on the internet about the watering, mulching, fertilizing…be a good student and make your homework.

Tending a garden is a pleasure activity but your commitment and daily work is must. You will be rewarded for sure…