Site Selection

The most important factor for successful gardens.

For those who have a very small area, a few plants can produce some fresh vegetables for your family.

When a choice of locations is available for your garden, there are several things that you need to consider to be assured that you choose the best possible site.

First consideration, most vegetables need full sun to do their best; therefore the area chosen should have full sun or as nearly possible. A few of the leafy vegetables will do all right in partial shade, but they will do better in full sun. Early morning sun is important to dry dew from the leaves as soon as possible.

The second consideration is nearness to the house. The selected site should be near the house so that it can be observed frequently for insect, disease, and weed problems.

The soil type is also very important. The soil type should be fertile, easily worked without leaving a lot of clods and it should be well-drained. Well-drained means that after heavy rains the excess water will drain out of the soil and not keep the area soggy.

The area should also be free of nut grass, Bermuda grass and other weeds and grasses that are difficult to control. The size of the garden may be predetermined by the amount of land available and the amount of time you have to spend in it.

For those who have a very small area, a few plants can produce some fresh vegetables for your family. Two tomato plants properly cared for will provide enough tomatoes for one member of the family. Also, a few plants can be put in pots on the terrace or around the yard area.

For more information on site selection contact your local County Extension Office.