Easy Vegetables to Grow in Spring

Leeks are a great spring vegetable that you can grow in your own vegetable garden. They grow well in all soil types. However, they don't turn into bulbs. Instead, they become thick stalks which are edible. They need warmth to fully develop, but they can still be eaten and grown well in spring. Also, lettuce is a very popular spring vegetable and is much healthier that store-bought varieties. Other than iceberg salad, spring vegetables include mustard, Fennel, and Dandelion greens.

For best results, spring vegetables can be planted as soon as April. Add compost and other organic material to your soil before planting. The basic green thumb rule is to mix two inches of organic matter per six inches of soil. This will ensure the plants get the correct amount of oxygen, water, and nutrients. You can purchase compost from your local garden centre if you don’t have a compost bin.

You can start with potatoes if you're unsure when to plant your vegetable. Early spring is a good time to start looking for seed potatoes. These plants will be ready to pick in mid-late Summer. You should also plant cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts in the late March-early April. These cold crops thrive in cool spring weather and should be planted early to make the most of their early growth. Harvesting occurs in the middle of May or early June.

Spinach is another favourite spring vegetable. Spinach is a member of the Cruciferous family. It thrives in cool climates. In cold climates, it can be planted as early as late fall. It prefers a slightly acidic or neutral soil. Zones 2 to 9 are good for this vegetable. The season for spinach depends on the weather and soil type. Planting spinach in spring is a good idea if it's your first time growing it.

Lettuce is another easy spring vegetable you can grow. This green leafy vegetable matures within 45-50 day. Sowing lettuce in April will yield fresh greens by May. You will need a container with a lighter weight and that is able hold moisture, as lettuce seeds are small. Mixing seeds will allow you to sow several. Place several seedlings in the same area and then replant the seedlings as needed to reach the desired size.

Radishes is another spring vegetable you should consider. You can make radishes in many colors and they can be braised and cooked just like turnips and potatoes. You can cook them with potatoes, carrots, and yams. Another option is to roast and braise these vegetables. For a more traditional meal, try making a slaw with a blend of green and root vegetables. There's something for everyone in this season.

FAQ

What vegetables can you grow together?

Because they are both fond of similar soil conditions and temperatures, it is easy to grow peppers and tomatoes together. Both are great companions as tomatoes require heat to ripen, while peppers need cooler temperatures to achieve their best flavor. You can try planting them together by starting seeds indoors six weeks before transplanting them outdoors. Once the weather gets warmer, transplant your pepper and tomato plants outdoors.

What is the minimum space required to grow vegetables?

It is best to remember that 1/2 pound of seed will be required for every square foot. For example, if you have a 10 foot by 10 foot area (3 meters by three meters), 100 pounds of seeds will be required.

What's the difference between aquaponic and hydroponic gardening?

Hydroponic gardening uses nutrients-rich water to feed plants. Aquaponics combines fish tanks with plants to create a self-sufficient ecosystem. It's like having a farm right in your backyard.

Statistics

• As the price of fruit and vegetables is expected to rise by 8% after Brexit, the idea of growing your own is now better than ever. (countryliving.com)
• Most tomatoes and peppers will take 6-8 weeks to reach transplant size so plan according to your climate! - ufseeds.com
• According to the National Gardening Association, the average family with a garden spends $70 on their crops—but they grow an estimated $600 worth of veggies! - blog.nationwide.com
• Today, 80 percent of all corn grown in North America is from GMO seed that is planted and sprayed with Roundup. - parkseed.com

External Links

almanac.com

• First and Last Frost Dates based on ZIP Code

bhg.com

• 6 Essential Steps for Starting Your First Vegetable Garden Off Right

How To

How do I keep weeds out of my vegetable garden?

The biggest threat to the growth of healthy vegetables is weeds. They vie for water, nutrients sunlight and space. To prevent them from taking over your garden, use these tips:

1. Take out all flowering plants
2. Get rid of any plant debris that may be around the base.
3. Mulch can be used
4. Drink water frequently
5. Rotate crops
6. Don't let the grass grow too long
7. Keep soil moist
8. Plant early
9. Harvest often
10. Add compost
11. Use pesticides sparingly
12. Grow organic vegetables
13. Heirloom seeds available
14. Start small
15. Learn about companion planting
16. Be patient
17. Enjoy gardening!