By Brian Monaghan
Master Gardener and Madison Environmental Commission Member
If you have an interest in growing your own vegetables at home, here are a few suggestions on where to plant and what to do. Without plowing up the back yard, you can grow almost any vegetables in between your shrubs, along a grass border, or in pots. Use your imagination!
The factor that impacts vegetable growth most is how much direct sun the area receives in a day. Certain crops such as leafy greens can get by on 4 hours. Root vegetables require at least 6 hours, and fruiting veggies require at least 8 hours. If your only sunny area is the patio or deck, then consider using containers. No matter where you plant, the care is basically the same: Plant, water and weed.
Starting From Seed vs. Transplanting Seedlings
You can grow vegetables either from seed or by purchasing plants from a garden center and transplanting them. Certain plants do not transplant well, such as squash, cucumber, carrots and peas. These should be seeded directly into the ground or a container. Other plants such as beans, lettuce, arugula, and cilantro are easier to seed and mature almost as quickly as transplants.