All you need to know to succeed in your vegetable garden this season

Gardening is becoming increasingly popular in Canada, and there is a marked craze for growing fruits and vegetables at home. Whether you want to set up a in-ground vegetable garden or opt for containers on the balcony, there are still some basic rules to follow. Here are the best practices to grow a successful vegetable garden this season.

Choose the right spot

The location of your vegetable garden will certainly have an impact on your crops. First of all, you should know that a vegetable garden needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Ideally, you should also position your garden away from the wind and near a water source to facilitate watering.

Plan the necessary space

You are probably wondering how big your garden should be? Although the ideal size for an average family of 4 people is 2 m x 4 m, we recommend that you go step by step. Even if you’re excited about the idea of a garden, you’re always better off starting smaller with a 1m x 2m garden for example to get familiar and enjoy your first gardening experience. You can always expand it the following year.

If you are a beginner and have never gardened before, we recommend that you opt for a raised bed or a vegetable garden. The advantage of a vegetable garden table is that it is at an ideal height and you will have less weeding to do. Moreover, the reorganization of your yard will be easier, if you change your mind after the season!

Choose vegetables that are easy-to-grow

Of course, it’s always a great idea to grow the vegetables your family loves to eat, however, be aware that some vegetables are easier to grow than others. Tomatoes and beans are probably the most common varieties, but check out some other easy-to-grow vegetables right here.

Fact to consider: If you opt for staked vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers or string beans, prioritize individual pots on the balcony.

Opt for winning combinations

Did you know that some vegetables produce more when they are next to their vegetable companion? Find out all the secrets about companion planting right here.

Use the right soil

Depending on the type of garden you choose, you will need to use the appropriate soil:

- In-ground or Raised Bed Garden Box :

Use VEGETABLE GARDEN 3/1 Planting mix for the plantation.

- Container growing or Raised Bed Garden Table :

Use Urban Garden Container Mix and add 1in of Sea Compost at the bottom of your container to stimulate plant growth at mid-season.

In either case, the following year, remove the top 6 inches of old soil and replace it with new soil. Add compost and mix.

Fertilize

Whether your vegetable garden is in a pot or in the ground, fertilization is not to be neglected. When planting, add Sea Compost and Natural Fertilizer for Vegetable Gardens to promote a bountiful harvest. Fertilize again every 3 to 4 weeks.

Water properly

It is always better to water early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry out during the day and thus reduce the risk of disease. Also prioritize regular deep watering to promote root growth. Monitor soil moisture regularly by sticking your index finger in the soil. You may need to water more often during hot weather. Stay alert! Overwatering can cause your plants to rot.

When your plants have reached 10 to 15 cm, add mulch to control weed germination while reducing watering. Buckwheat hull mulch or shredded autumn leaves are ideal for the vegetable garden.

So now you know that vegetable gardening is not complicated. You are now ready to start. To learn how to grow your vegetables and herbs, watch these videos:

Vegetables and herbs in containers

Vegetables and herbs in-ground

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Tips and advice for beginners : How to grow a successful vegetable garden!

Choose the right spot

Plan the necessary space

Choose vegetables that are easy-to-grow

Opt for winning combinations

Use the right soil

In-ground or Raised Bed Garden Box :

Container growing or Raised Bed Garden Table :

Fertilize

Water properly