Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is easy to grow at home. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy fresh asparagus from your own garden for many years to come.

Starting Asparagus from Seed

Asparagus can be started from seed or from crowns. Starting from seed is less expensive, but it takes longer to get a harvest. If you start from seed, you will need to sow the seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. The seeds should be planted about 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. Keep the seeds moist and warm, and they should germinate in 3-6 weeks.

Planting Asparagus Crowns

Planting asparagus crowns is the quickest way to get a harvest. Crowns are available for purchase at most garden centers. When choosing crowns, look for ones that are firm and healthy.

To plant asparagus crowns, dig a trench that is 8-12 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide. Space the crowns 12-18 inches apart in the trench. Cover the crowns with soil, and water them well.

Asparagus Planting Instructions

Once you have started your asparagus plants from seed or crowns, there are a few things you need to do to care for them.

• Water: Asparagus plants need regular watering, especially during hot weather.
• Fertilize: Asparagus plants are heavy feeders, so they need to be fertilized regularly. A balanced fertilizer can be applied every few weeks.
• Weed: Asparagus beds should be kept weed free. Weeds can compete with asparagus plants for water and nutrients.
• Mulch: Mulching around asparagus plants helps to keep the soil moist and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Asparagus

Asparagus is ready to harvest when the spears are 6-8 inches tall. To harvest asparagus, simply snap the spears off at the base. Be careful not to damage the plant.

Asparagus can be harvested for 6-8 weeks each spring. After harvesting, allow the plants to grow and fern out. This will help them to store energy for the next growing season.

Common Asparagus Problems

Asparagus is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but there are a few common problems that you may encounter.

• Pests: Asparagus beetles are the most common pests of asparagus plants. These beetles can damage the leaves and stems of the plants.
• Diseases: Asparagus rust is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves of asparagus plants to turn yellow and drop off.
• Nutrient deficiencies: Asparagus plants can develop nutrient deficiencies if the soil is not fertile.

Tips for Growing Asparagus

• Asparagus prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5-7.0.
• Asparagus plants need full sun to partial shade.
• Asparagus plants are heavy feeders, so they need to be fertilized regularly.
• Asparagus beds should be kept weed free.

If you’re thinking about starting a garden, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to start your plants from seed or buy transplants. Both methods have their pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh the options before making a decision.

Why Start Seeds?

• It’s more economical. Seeds are much cheaper than transplants, especially if you save them from year to year or exchange them with other gardeners.
• You have more variety to choose from. Seed catalogs offer a much wider selection of varieties than most nurseries. You can even find heirloom varieties that are no longer commonly available.
• Some plants don’t transplant well. Carrots, beans, and other root vegetables are best sown directly in the garden.
• You can start seeds indoors. This gives you a head start on the growing season, especially if you live in a cold climate.
• It’s rewarding! There’s something special about watching your little seeds grow into big, healthy plants.

Why Use Transplants?

• They’re quicker to grow. Transplants are already established, so they can be planted outdoors as soon as the soil is warm enough. This can give you a jumpstart on the growing season, especially for plants that have a long growing season, such as tomatoes and peppers.
• You can get just what you need. Nurseries often sell transplants in small quantities, so you can buy just a few of each variety. This is a good option if you’re only growing a small garden.
• They’re less maintenance. Transplants have already been hardened off, so they’re more likely to survive the transition to the outdoors.
• They’re less prone to pests and diseases. Transplants are grown in a controlled environment, so they’re less likely to be exposed to pests and diseases.

Seed Planting Downsides

• It takes more time. Seeds take time to germinate and grow into seedlings. If you start your seeds indoors, you’ll need to provide them with light, water, and nutrients for several weeks before they’re ready to be transplanted outdoors.
• Some seeds may not germinate. Not all seeds are viable, so you may end up with some seedlings that don’t make it.
• Seedlings can be leggy. If your seedlings don’t get enough light, they may become leggy and weak.

Transplant Downsides

• They can be more expensive. Transplants are more expensive than seeds, especially if you buy them from a nursery.
• They may not be as healthy. Transplants are often grown in crowded conditions, which can make them more susceptible to pests and diseases.
• They may not be adapted to your climate. Transplants are often grown in a different climate than the one you’re gardening in. This can make them more difficult to establish in your garden.

So, Which is Right for You?

The best way to decide whether to start seeds or buy transplants is to consider your own gardening goals and preferences. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to grow a wide variety of plants, starting seeds is a good option. If you’re short on time or want to get a head start on the growing season, transplants may be a better choice.

Here are a few additional tips to help you make a decision:

• If you’re a beginner gardener, starting with transplants may be easier.
• If you have a short growing season, starting seeds indoors can give you a head start.
• If you’re growing a large garden, starting seeds can save you money.
• If you’re growing plants that don’t transplant well, such as carrots or beans, you’ll need to start them from seed.

Ultimately, the best way to learn about starting seeds and buying transplants is to experiment. Try both methods and see what works best for you.

Tomatillos are a unique fruit that is related to tomatoes. They belong to the Nightshade family and are similar in shape to tomatoes, but they have a few key differences. Tomatillos are typically green, yellow, or purple when ripe, and they have a papery husk around the fruit.

Growing Tomatillos

Tomatillos can be grown from seed in warmer climates, or you can start them indoors six weeks before the last expected frost. They need full sun and well-drained soil. Water them regularly, especially after the fruits begin to form. Tomatillo plants need support, so you should provide a cage or stakes to keep them upright.

How to Tell if a Tomatillo is Ripe

Unlike tomatoes, the color of a tomatillo is not a good indicator of ripeness. Each variety matures to a different hue. Instead, the best way to tell if a tomatillo is ripe is to look at the husk. When the husk is dry and split, the tomatillo is ready to harvest.

How to Harvest Tomatillos

Harvest tomatillos when they are green for the best flavor. Choose fruits that have burst their husk and have no signs of disease or damage. Cut the fruits off the plant to avoid damaging the stems and other fruit.

When to Harvest Tomatillos

Tomatillos are typically ready to harvest 75 to 100 days after planting. You can harvest them from midsummer well into fall.

How to Use Tomatillos

Tomatillos have a slightly tart and citrusy flavor, which makes them a good substitute for tomatoes in many dishes. They can be used in salsas, enchiladas, salads, and soups. Tomatillos are also a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients.

Tomatillos vs. Tomatoes

Tomatillos and tomatoes are both members of the Nightshade family, but they have some key differences. Tomatillos are typically smaller than tomatoes, and they have a papery husk around the fruit. Tomatillos also have a tangier flavor than tomatoes.

Tomatillo Nutrition

Tomatillos are a good source of several nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They are also low in calories and fat.

Tomatillo Recipes

There are many delicious ways to use tomatillos in cooking. Here are a few ideas:

• Tomatillo salsa
• Tomatillo enchiladas
• Tomatillo salad
• Tomatillo soup

Tomatillo Canning and Freezing

Tomatillos can be canned or frozen for long-term storage. Canning is a good option if you want to store tomatillos for a long period of time. Freezing is a good option if you want to store tomatillos for a shorter period of time.

Growing Tomatillos in a Container Garden

Tomatillos can be grown in a container garden, which is a great option if you have limited space. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Fill the container with well-drained potting mix and plant the tomatillo seeds or seedlings. Water the plants regularly and fertilize them every few weeks.

Conclusion

Tomatillos are a versatile and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They are easy to grow and can be stored for long periods of time. So next time you’re looking for a new fruit to try, give tomatillos a chance!

Introduction

Turnips, often overlooked for their more glamorous counterparts, are a nutritious and versatile vegetable that’s easy to grow and can be enjoyed throughout the year. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully cultivate turnips in your garden.

Choosing the Right Soil and Location

Turnips prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of pH levels, but slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-6.5) is ideal. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade.

Planting Turnips

• When to Plant: Turnips can be planted in early spring or late summer.
• Spacing: Sow seeds 1 cm deep and 30 cm apart for early turnips, and 15 cm apart for maincrop turnips.
• Thinning: Once seedlings emerge, thin them out to 10-15 cm apart for smaller turnips, or 23 cm apart for larger turnips.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Watering: Water turnips regularly, especially during dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize turnips every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Pest and Disease Control

Turnips are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:

• Cabbage root fly: Protect seedlings with mesh or horticultural fleece.
• Flea beetle: Keep soil moist and use a good fertilizer to promote plant health.
• Powdery mildew: Keep plants well-watered and avoid overcrowding.
• Club root: Avoid planting turnips in soil that has previously been affected by club root.

Harvesting Turnips

• When to Harvest: Harvest turnips when they are young and small, about the size of a golf ball.
• How to Harvest: Use a garden fork to gently lift turnips out of the ground.

Storing Turnips

Turnips can be stored for several months in a cool, dark place. Wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in a perforated bag in the refrigerator.

Turnip Varieties

There are many different varieties of turnips, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

• Purple Top Milan: Early variety with white roots and purple tops.
• Tokyo Cross: Fast-growing early variety with small, white roots.
• Green Globe: Maincrop variety with white, round roots.
• Snow Ball: White, globe turnip with a sweet flavor and delicious turnip tops.
• Oasis: Summer or early variety with virus-resistant white roots.

Companion Planting

Companion planting can help to improve the health and productivity of your turnips. Good companion plants for turnips include:

• Nasturtiums: Draw cabbage white butterflies away from turnips.
• Mint: Deters flea beetles.
• Marigolds: Repel nematodes.

Additional Tips

• To improve drainage and reduce the risk of club root, add lime to the soil before planting.
• Turnips can be eaten raw, cooked, or fermented.
• The greens of turnips are also edible and nutritious.

Conclusion

Growing turnips is a rewarding experience that can provide you with a delicious and nutritious vegetable. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can successfully cultivate turnips in your own garden and enjoy their many benefits.

What is Kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi is a unique and easy-to-grow vegetable that is part of the cabbage family. It has a mild flavor similar to broccoli or turnip and is a good source of dietary fiber, calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

How to Grow Kohlrabi

• When to Plant: Plant kohlrabi in spring or summer. You can start seeds indoors in late winter or sow them directly outdoors when the soil has warmed up.
• Where to Plant: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
• How to Plant: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 12 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 1 foot apart.

How to Care for Kohlrabi

• Watering: Water kohlrabi regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize kohlrabi every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Pest and Disease Control: Protect kohlrabi from pests and diseases by using insect netting and crop rotation.

Harvesting Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is ready to harvest when the stems are between 2 and 3 inches in diameter. Cut the stems at the base of the plant. Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Growing Kohlrabi

• For an early harvest, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
• To prevent bolting (going to seed), keep kohlrabi well-watered.
• If you notice any pests or diseases, treat them promptly to prevent damage to your plants.

Enjoy Growing and Eating Kohlrabi!

Lima beans are delicious, nutritious legumes that are easy to grow in home gardens. They come in both bush and vine varieties, and can be enjoyed fresh, canned, or frozen.

When to Plant Lima Beans

Lima beans are warm-season crops that should be planted after the last frost in your area. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Choosing a Planting Site

Lima beans prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Amend the soil with compost or manure before planting to improve fertility and drainage.

Planting Lima Beans

Plant lima bean seeds 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart. If you are planting a vine variety, you will need to provide support for the plants as they grow. You can use poles, stakes, or tomato cages.

Watering and Fertilizing Lima Beans

Lima beans need about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize lima beans every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Harvesting Lima Beans

Bush lima beans will be ready to harvest in about 60 days, while vine varieties will take closer to 90 days. The pods should be bright green and firm when they are ready to be picked.

Storing Lima Beans

Fresh lima beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. You can also freeze lima beans for up to 6 months. To freeze lima beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cool them in ice water. Drain the beans and spread them on a baking sheet. Freeze the beans for 2 hours, then transfer them to freezer-safe bags.

Nutritional Benefits of Lima Beans

Lima beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked lima beans contains:

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 15 grams
• Fiber: 13 grams
• Iron: 4 milligrams
• Potassium: 500 milligrams
• Magnesium: 120 milligrams
• Vitamin C: 20 milligrams

Tips for Growing Lima Beans

• Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
• Plant lima beans after the last frost in your area.
• Water lima beans deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize lima beans every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Harvest lima beans when the pods are bright green and firm.
• Store lima beans in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, or freeze them for up to 6 months.

With a little care and attention, you can easily grow delicious and nutritious lima beans in your own garden.

Radishes are one of the easiest vegetables to grow, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners. However, even easy-to-grow veggies can sometimes have problems. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to grow healthy and delicious radishes in your garden.

How to Grow Radishes

To grow radishes, start by preparing the soil. Radishes prefer loose, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is not well-drained, you can amend it with compost or sand.

Once the soil is prepared, sow the radish seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist. Radishes germinate quickly, and you should see seedlings emerge within a few days.

When the seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin them out so that they are spaced 2 inches apart. This will help the radishes grow to their full size.

Radishes grow quickly and are ready to harvest in about 25 to 35 days. To harvest radishes, simply pull them up by the roots.

Keep Pests from Eating Radishes

Radishes are susceptible to a few pests, including aphids, cabbage loopers, and flea beetles. To prevent pests from eating your radishes, you can use a variety of methods, such as:

• Using row covers
• Applying insecticidal soap
• Planting companion plants that repel pests

What to Do with Radish Greens

Radish greens are edible and can be used in a variety of dishes. You can add them to salads, soups, or stir-fries. Radish greens are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Why Is My Radish Plant Still Flowering?

If your radish plant is still flowering, it is likely because it is not getting enough water or nutrients. Radishes need about 1 inch of water per week and should be fertilized every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Why Are My Radish Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellowing radish leaves can be a sign of a nutrient deficiency, such as a lack of nitrogen or potassium. It can also be a sign of a disease, such as fusarium wilt or blackleg.

When Will My Radishes Be Ready to Harvest?

Radishes are ready to harvest when the roots are about 1 inch in diameter. You can check the size of the roots by gently brushing away the soil around the base of the plant.

Why Don’t My Radish Plants Produce Bulbs?

If your radish plants are not producing bulbs, it is likely because the soil is too compacted or the plants are not getting enough sunlight. Radishes need loose, well-drained soil and at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

How to Store Radishes

Radishes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To store radishes, remove the tops and wash them thoroughly. Place the radishes in a plastic bag or container and store them in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator.

Why Are My Radish Bulbs Deformed?

Deformed radish bulbs can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:

• Rocks or other objects in the soil
• Poor soil drainage
• Overcrowding
• Nutrient deficiencies

Why Are My Radishes So Hot?

Hot radishes are caused by a compound called glucosinolate. Glucosinolates are produced by radishes in response to stress, such as heat, drought, or pests. To reduce the heat in radishes, try growing them in cool weather and providing them with plenty of water.

How to Grow Radishes in a Raised Bed

Raised beds are a great way to grow radishes, especially if you have poor soil drainage. To grow radishes in a raised bed, simply fill the bed with loose, well-drained soil. Sow the radish seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist.

How to Grow Radishes in Containers

Radishes can also be grown in containers. To grow radishes in containers, choose a container that is at least 6 inches deep and has drainage holes. Fill the container with loose, well-drained soil. Sow the radish seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist.

How to Grow Radishes in Winter

Radishes can be grown in winter in mild climates. To grow radishes in winter, sow the seeds in a cold frame or greenhouse. Keep the seedlings warm and protected from the cold. Once the seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant them into the garden.

How to Grow Radishes in a Greenhouse

Radishes can be grown in a greenhouse year-round. To grow radishes in a greenhouse, sow the seeds in flats or pots filled with loose, well-drained soil. Keep the seedlings warm and watered. Once the seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant them into the greenhouse bed.

What are Roma Tomatoes?

Roma tomatoes are a type of tomato that is known for its small, plum-shaped fruit. They have fewer seeds than most tomato varieties, making them ideal for making sauces, ketchup, and preserving. Roma tomatoes are also great for eating fresh.

How to Grow Roma Tomatoes

You can grow Roma tomatoes from seed or buy ready-grown plants. If you start from seed, sow them indoors in late winter or early spring. Once the seedlings have germinated, transplant them into individual pots and grow them in a warm, well-lit place.

When the weather warms up, you can transplant the tomato plants outdoors. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant the tomatoes deeply, burying the stem up to the first set of leaves.

How to Care for Roma Tomatoes

Water your Roma tomatoes regularly, especially during hot weather. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilize your Roma tomatoes every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Prune your Roma tomato plants regularly to remove any suckers that grow from the main stem. This will help the plants to focus their energy on producing fruit.

How to Harvest Roma Tomatoes

Roma tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully red and slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist the tomatoes from the vine, taking care not to damage the plants.

Troubleshooting

• Blossom end rot: This is a common problem in Roma tomatoes that is caused by a calcium deficiency. To prevent blossom end rot, make sure your plants are getting enough water and calcium.
• Pests and diseases: Roma tomatoes are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, whiteflies, and late blight. To prevent pests and diseases, keep your plants healthy and free of weeds.

Where to Buy Roma Tomatoes

You can buy Roma tomato seeds or plants from most garden centers and online retailers. You can also find Roma tomatoes at farmers markets and grocery stores.

Introduction

September is a time of transition in the garden, as summer winds down and autumn approaches. But it’s also a month of abundance, with many fruits and vegetables reaching their peak ripeness. If you’re growing your own food, September is a great time to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Harvesting Your Crops

• Harvesting Maincrop Potatoes: Dig up any remaining potatoes that are still in the ground. Inspect each tuber and discard any that are damaged or have been burrowed into by pests.

• Picking Apples: Apples are ready to pick when they easily detach from the tree with a gentle twist. Avoid picking them too early, as they will not be as flavorful. Store apples in a cool, airy place indoors.

• Harvesting Autumn Raspberries: Raspberries are ripe when they easily fall from the plant when gently pulled. Check the plants daily, as the fruits tend to spoil quickly if not picked at their peak.

Preserving the Harvest

• How to Ripen Late Tomatoes: Keep watering tomato plants and providing them with a high-potassium liquid plant food. Remove leaves to allow more sunlight to reach the remaining fruits.

• How to Store Apples: Store apples in a cool, airy place indoors, ideally in trays. Wrap each apple individually and avoid storing them on top of each other.

Starting New Vegetables

• Sowing Broad Beans: Sow broad beans directly in the soil or in pots. Autumn-sown broad beans are more robust and can produce an earlier harvest next year.

• Sowing Spinach: Spinach can be sown directly into the soil or in pots. Cover the seeds with a layer of compost or soil equal to the height of the seed. Protect plants from cold weather with a cloche or fleece.

• Planting Autumn Onion Sets: Plant onion sets in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Space the sets 10cm apart in rows spaced 30cm apart. Plant the sets so that the “tail” at the top is just above the soil surface.

• Planting Out Spring Cabbages: Plant spring cabbage seedlings that are around 12cm tall. Disturb as little soil as possible when making a planting hole. Plant one plant every 10cm and space rows 30cm apart. Protect the young plants from pigeons with horticultural fleece or netting.

Growing Tips

• Keep Plants Productive: Keep tomato plants well-watered and fertilized. Regularly pick beans to encourage continued cropping.

• Get the Biggest Tomato Crop Possible: Prevent blossom end rot by keeping tomato plants well-watered and fertilized. Remove leaves to allow more sunlight to reach the remaining fruits.

• Enjoy More Beans: Runner beans and climbing French beans should continue to crop well all month. Pick the pods regularly when they are young and tender.

• Leave Windfall Fruits for Wildlife: Allow windfall fruits to remain in the garden to provide food for butterflies, birds, and other animals.

Additional Tips

• Dig up clumps of chives and parsley and pot them up to bring indoors for a winter supply of fresh herbs.

• Save money on gardening supplies by taking advantage of subscriber discounts and special offers.

Conclusion

September is a busy but rewarding month in the garden. By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh fruits and vegetables. And by starting some new vegetables now, you can extend your growing season and enjoy fresh produce all year long.

Introduction

Basil is a delicious and versatile herb that’s easy to grow from seed. It’s a great choice for beginner gardeners because it doesn’t require a lot of space or special care.

When to Sow Basil Seeds

You can start sowing basil seeds indoors in February. Basil prefers warm temperatures, so it’s best to wait until the weather warms up a bit before planting outdoors.

How to Sow Basil Seeds

• Fill a pot with peat-free multi-purpose compost.
• Water the compost before you place the seeds in.
• Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of the compost.
• Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost.
• Keep the compost moist but not soggy.

Caring for Basil Seedlings

• Once the seeds have germinated, move the pots to a sunny spot.
• Water the seedlings sparingly until they have established roots.
• Fertilize the seedlings every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Planting Basil Outdoors

You can plant basil outdoors once the weather has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.

Growing Basil Indoors

You can also grow basil indoors in a pot. Make sure the pot has drainage holes and place a tray or saucer underneath to catch excess water.

Tips for Growing Basil

• Water basil in the morning rather than the evening to prevent the leaves from getting wet overnight.
• Basil is a companion plant for tomatoes, so planting them together can benefit both plants.
• You can make a delicious pesto sauce with fresh basil leaves.

Conclusion

Growing basil is a rewarding experience that can provide you with fresh, flavorful herbs all season long. By following these simple tips, you can easily grow your own basil plants and enjoy the many benefits they offer.