We are fortunate to have two major growing seasons in the desert Southwest, Spring and Fall. Below are tips for planting and care that will produce fresh, virtually year-round vegetables for your enjoyment.

Planting

When planting a vegetable garden, choose a spot that gets full sun, all day (8 hours+). Then, add to the soil a 3-4 inch layer of Greenworld Mulch and one pound of First Step Soil Acidifier per 100 square feet to loosen the soil, assist drainage, and acidify. Also add 3-5 pounds per 100 sqare feet each of blood meal, bone meal, and greensand. Our native soils naturally lack the organic matter, acidity and nutrients that produce truly tasty vegetables which is why we recommend soil supplements. These additions will maximize production, efficiency and taste. Once added, spade to a depth of 8-12 inches. Next, create furrows 24 inches apart so the bed width leaves enough room for the plant to grow.

Most vegetable starts are sold in 4 inch pots or 6-packs. Dig holes big enough for the plant's root ball. Carefully remove the plant from the container and gently loosen the roots. Then, place the plant in a hole and firmly pack soil around the root ball. Spacing between the holes will depend on what you are growing.

Watering

Water thoroughly after planting. If you plant your vegetables from seed, cover the seeds with a light application of top dressing mulch, a twice-ground and very fine textured mulch. Water the seeds and keep moist throughout germination.

A Drip Tape Watering System is a great watering method and makes vegetable gardening easy. The tape is laid on top of the bed next to the plants so that you have thorough watering and leaching of soluble salts. The next easiest and most efficient method is furrow irrigation. Remember, deep watering is the key. So, water thoroughly but less frequently. Avoid sprinkling with a garden hose. Water two to three times per week until the plant is established. Then, drop back to one to two times per week watering depending on temperatures - more frequently in the summer and less in fall. Drip tape runs on 8-10 pounds pressure, so the water needs to run 4-6 hours to get full penetration. If you furrow irrigate, make sure you completely fill the furrow with water and leave running until the bed is soaked.

Feeding

Fertilize with 14-14-14 Flower Power, or one of the Growmore organics. Feed according to label instructions.

Pests

For most insects, we recommend Organic Soaps or Neem Oil based pesticides. Consult a Gardener's World Pro about your specific needs.

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