How To Grow a Vegetable Garden

KNOW HOW TO GROW A VEGETABLE GARDEN


Starting a vegetable garden is an exciting prospect. Learn how you can enjoy natural, home-grown vegetables in your yard with these simple steps. Start with a small plot and learn how to prepare, maintain and grow vegetables today.


Get the Tools for the Job



Starting a garden is an affordable hobby and a great way to supplement your diet with fresh vegetables. While there are many quality items you can invest in to make the job easier, here are the basics for your first garden:



  • Seed packets

  • Shovel

  • Hoe

  • Garden rake

  • Trowel

  • Garden hose


Start Small


Many first-time gardeners can become overwhelmed with even a mid-sized garden. Start with a small plot of land, about 6-10 feet square. Be sure your garden plot has a balance of sun and shade and is conveniently near your water hose.


Select Your Plants or Seeds


The most important step is to select your vegetables. Pick your favorites so you'll enjoy the reward of your first harvest. Check each type of vegetable seed to be sure you know the growing season in your region.


Some plants come in compact or dwarf sizes. This can be a great option for a small starter garden. Compare early-harvest and disease-resistant varieties to find the most convenient growing season for your schedule.


Prepare the Ground


Plan out exactly where you want to have your garden. Vegetables require different amounts of spacing, so be sure to plant rows or bushes far enough from each other for proper growth. Keep paths in between rows for easy weeding and harvesting. Consider using mulch or straw in the paths to reduce weed growth.


A vegetable garden needs at least the top foot of soil turned over. Use a rototiller or hoe and shovel to cut into the soil, remove roots and turn the earth. For best growth, add compost, bone meal and composted manure to improve the nutrient value of your garden.


Plant, Weed and Water


Create a planting schedule based on the recommendations of your seed packet and your climate. Some plants, like peas, tomatoes and beans, are best grown with fences and cages. Others grow just fine on the ground. If it's your second year of growing a vegetable garden, remember to rotate your crop placement to maintain healthy soil.


Watering and weeding should be done as needed. Water around the base of plants or use a soaker hose to conserve water. Hand-pulling weeds creates the least stress on plants, but you can use a hoe or garden rake.


Shop for Garden Supplies Today


Get started with your DIY vegetable garden today. Shop for supplies at a location near you and enjoy affordable tools, mulch and equipment to create a fun hobby and a great source of affordable vegetables right at home.