In all gardens, there is work to do in spring to prepare for the upcoming growing season, and the CKE Community Garden is no different. We had a very well-attended and productive cleanup morning in mid-April. Several new gardeners were able to attend and we are excited to welcome our newest members! This is, after all, a “community” garden.
By June, the risk of frost should have passed, and it is safe to plant tender herbs and vegetables. There is the choice to either put seeds directly into the ground or to plant small transplants. Both work well, so the choice is made based on availability, cost, time to maturity, and selection.
Most herbs are grown from transplants or small potted plants. Basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and others can be found in garden centres, or can be started at home indoors several weeks before planting. Some herbs can be seeded directly into the garden, such as arugula and cilantro.
Tender vegetables include beans, broccoli, squash, peppers, and tomatoes. Peppers and tomatoes are best grown from small or even medium-sized plants either purchased or started at home. It is possible to find small transplants of squash, beans, and broccoli, but seeding directly will produce very similar results.
Typically, seeds are much less expensive to purchase and allow for staggered seeding which stretches out the harvest. Seeds also offers a much greater range of cultivars, including those available through mail order. On the other hand, small plants will allow for a jump start in the time needed to reach harvest, which can be an advantage in our short summers.
Consider using a mix of both direct seeding and transplants; take notes to compare the results. If you would like to see a wide variety of herbs and vegetables growing successfully in our neighbourhood, pay a visit to the CKE Community Garden.
Happy Gardening!
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