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GARDENING
Basics to follow for successful gardening include:
- Analyze the soil to determine the soil pH, organic content, and the texture which affects water absorption and drainage. The pH of a soil influences the availability of nutrients to plants and the activity of soil microorganisms.
- Develop a garden plan and decide what kind of plants you can grow that fit in with the different seasons.
Pick a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight on a daily basis, located close to a source of water for irrigation purposes, with good natural drainage. Conserve water by using organic matter, such as mulch, and irrigation techniques, such as soaker hoses and drip irrigation.
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- Prepare the soil adequately by adding topsoil, a soil mix, and organic materials. Soil can be improved by applying mulch, compost, grass cuttings, and leaves. Organic matter improves the structure, texture, and water-holding capacity of the soil. Organic materials enrich the soil by adding nutrients and make the soil more productive. Mix organics into the soil at least a month before planting. Apply well-composted materials when planting.
- Mulch is useful for gardening and other landscaping needs. Mulch, a layer of organic material applied to the soil surface, protects plant roots from extremes of heat, cold, and drought. Mulch retains soil moisture, discourages the growth of weeds, slows erosion, and helps prevent soil compaction. Mulching materials include composted kitchen scraps, such as vegetable trimmings and moldy fruit; garden clippings, such as grass cuttings and wood chips, and a layer of newspaper (minus the glossy inserts).
- Nematodes, those microscopic worms which feed on the roots of plants, causing stunted growth and reduced vegetable yields, can be controlled by raising the organic content of the soil. Organic matter encourages a healthy population of beneficial insects, worms, bacteria and fungi which discourages nematodes.
If your garden has a severe nematode problem, you can reduce pest populations through soil fumigation by a licensed professional or through soil solarization. Solarization is a process in which the garden lot is prepared, raked over, and covered with a clear plastic sheet for one month or more. Heat from the sun penetrates the earth and destroys the nematodes.
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