What Are You Growing This Summer? Here’s My Garden Plan
What are you planting in your garden right now? In the Southeast, Spring is beginning to look a lot like Summer. Even though my winter and spring were packed with travels to Europe and Asia, I managed to grow a few garden staples:
Spring Takeaway
This season taught me an important lesson — I need to plant based on what we eat! Since we juice a lot of kale and beets, next year I’ll be planting at least four kale plants and more root vegetables to keep up.
Summer Planting
As the summer approaches, my garden friends and I are discussing what plan to plant for the upcoming months in Zone 9a. A common theme in our gardening plans included planting:
Okras
Cucumbers
Tomatoes
Potatoes
For me, I have already planted (or plan to plant):
Okras
Tomatoes
Peppers
Eggplants
Cucumbers
Potatoes (Various Varieties)
Callaloo
Not sure of your zone? Find your USDA Zone here.
Quick Tips for Summer Gardening
Water early
Beat the heat and help roots absorb water better by watering in the morning
Mulch generously
Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps weeds down. This season, I am using cardboard box pieces as an alternative to mulch as it is readily available and free
Watch for pests
Aphids and hornworms love the heat too
Remember to prune your plants
What I’m Excited to Try or Experiment With
One thing I love to do is experiment and try new things inside and outside of the garden. This summer, I will be planting potatoes in grow bags, I previously grew potatoes in ground at a local community garden and once they are in the ground they keep coming back up each year. I don’t want that occurring in my personal yard; therefore, I will be planting them in a grow bag at home! It’s always fun to try something new in the garden!
What are you planting this summer? Any tips or experiments you’re excited about? Drop them below — I'd love to hear!