When my husband and I decided to start an organic vegetable garden, we were so excited! We talked about how satisfying it would be to grow our own food, how convenient it would be to step outside and pick fresh veggies, and how much money we would save on our grocery bill. The only problem was we had no idea where to start! We had so many questions. Fortunately, we were able to take advantage of an amazing free resource, City Farmers in San Diego. This small organic farm and nursery, run for over 20 years by Farmer Bill, offers free classes and has a knowledgeable staff eager to help. If you are ready to start a garden, a small local nursery is the best place to get valuable advice (and supplies). However, before you head off there are a few things you should consider when getting started.
Where should I plant my garden? Location is important when growing vegetables. Choose an area that gets full sun, typically the south side. Then determine whether you will be planting in the ground or in pots (a great option if you're renting or don't have a yard!) Planting in the ground requires adding organic matter and tilling to create optimal soil. Read more about caring for soil, here.
How much should I plant? The size of your garden is largely determined by how much space you have, but if you're new to gardening it's best to start small (8'x10' or smaller). As far as how many plants of each vegetable, it can vary greatly depending on the plant. Refer to this chart for a guideline for a family of four.
What vegetables should I plant and when? This is the fun part! What vegetables you grow in your garden are entirely up to you. Think about what produce you buy most frequently. Or start with herbs and vegetables that are easier to grow, such as carrots, lettuce, green beans, cherry tomatoes and green onions. Click here to learn what to plant when in your area.
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