Two weeks ago I put in my Spring garden. By "Spring", I mean those plants which will produce in late spring, summer, and as last year proved, into fall. I'm talking cucumbers, bell peppers and tomatos. As part of my rotational regiment, these went into the "east plot" (last year, they were planted in the "west plot"). Each of the two plots are 16x6 in size, bordered by 2x6 boards. The soil in each was dug out to 3 feet, then amended with a combination of compost (from my compost pile), manure and Miracle-Gro garden soil.
Yes, I'm a disciple of the late Mel Bartholomew - Dean of Square Foot Gardening. It works!
Plant progress has been slow. Even though the weather has been warm, perhaps the ground is still a bit cool. I'm not discouraged... last year this time it was only slightly more advanced. Then in April it really took off (but that was after I added the "secret ingredient"... I'll explain in a future post). At least 3 plants had to be replaced due to wind damage. We had a storm that came last week that produced 45 knot gusts!
The West Plot isn't empty. Half of it is currently in progress.... I'm experimenting with cantalope and watermelon grown on a vertical frame. Yes, another SQFG concept. I did this once before and it worked out pretty well. The key is to grow small melons like Sugar Baby. I think the standard melons would break off under their own weight (although I couldn't find a forum post to confirm that). Later the other half of the West Plot will be put to snap beans.
