1- Start small
Check the possibilities. You can plant veggies in pots. If you rent, and your landlord allows to plant outdoors, a raised bed is a good idea for your veggie garden because you can manage the soil better.
Raised beds start at $25 but you can make one and design it yourself or start it as a project with a friend. Lumber is a good material to use. Do not use water shield wood. Add cardboard at the bottom to prevent weeds.
2- Get the essentials
You need organic soil, organic compost and organic manure. Good soil is dark and it is like powder in your hands. Some people use pea moss.
3- Earthworms
They play an important role in breaking down dead organic matter in a process known as decomposition. Earthworms are also responsible for mixing soil layers and incorporating organic matter into the soil. If you do not have them you can purchase them at your local fishing store.
4- Sunshine
Place your garden in an area where it will get six hours or more of sunshine.
5- Water
Make sure you water your garden at dusk, (too much water= mold, too little water= dry plants/dry soil.) During the summer months add plenty of water.
6- Compost
Before you say eww, there is organic compost in the market that does not smell and it is excellent for indoor use. Your manure must be Organic Certified or from an organic farm. Non-organic manure will contaminate your plants. Multiple diseases can result if you eat plants that have been in contact with manure that is not organic. Non organic manure may contain components such as trash, glass, sewer, etc. Be careful when selecting manure.
7- Mix Vegetables
Plant mustard in your garden and mix in some small flowers. This will prevent animals and insects from getting to your garden and the flowers will attract pollinators to help your garden.
8- Be creative in your planting choices
Before getting your seeds/plants take the time to learn about them. Also consider the distance between plants; their roots need space to develop so do not plant them too close together.
9- Take a trip to a local farm
Spend some time with a farmer (take your buddies on a road trip and make it an fun day.) You will learn so much from farmers about their techniques, their knowledge about sustainability and nature itself, it is the best your can do for yourself, your garden and your friends. Local farmers have the knowledge of many generations before them that you will not find on YouTube, Google, or Wikipedia!
10- Take your time
Take your time when setting your garden. This is not the Olympics! Plan ahead, go slow, and enjoy.
> Caltech and PCC both have excellent garden groups or you can join a local garden “Throop Learning Garden” (they meet on Wednesdays and Sundays). The Throop Learning Garden is located in the heart of Downtown Pasadena.
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