How to grow your own vegetables
BY BUZZ
It is becoming more and more popular to grow your own vegetables. Not only can you save money by doing so, but you also get the satisfaction of eating something that you have grown yourself, and you know that your vegetables will be fresh, ripe and taste great!
But what things do you need to consider in order to grow your own vegetables?
Vegetable patch
Whether it’s an area of your garden, a greenhouse or plant pots, you will need somewhere to grow your veg. Choose a sunny spot, as most vegetable plants like sunshine, which is sometimes hard to find in West Berkshire! Try to find somewhere that is sheltered from the wind, to protect your plants. For most plants, you will need topsoil at least 30cm deep.
Decide what to grow
This can vary dramatically based on your personal tastes and the amount of space you have. You also need to consider the time of year as plants usually have to be planted at a specific time. It should tell you on the seed packets / with the seedling plants when they should be planted. Courgettes, potatoes, carrots, onions, runner beans and beetroot are all popular choices. You can also grow herbs such as parsley or dill.
Prepare your soil
Soil needs preparing to give your plants the best chance at growing. This can involve breaking up large clubs of soil into smaller bits or feeding it nutrients. If you are unsure, pop down to your local garden centre and ask for some advice.
Plant your vegetables
You will need to buy seeds or seedling plants, depending on what you want to grow. Again, if you need help, visit your local garden centre. Make sure to water your plants after you plant them, but don’t drown them!
Tend to your vegetables
They will need watering regularly, as well as weeding. Pest control might also be needed, especially to protect again slugs and snails.
When they are ready, pick your vegetables!
Be patient and care for your plants, and in a couple of months you should be able to start harvesting your vegetables (it may be sooner or later, depending on what you planted). Enjoy eating your veg!
