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5 Tips for Choosing the Right Garden Space

Lush garden scene with raised wooden beds of vibrant greens and flowers. A small shed sits in the background, surrounded by tall trees.

Choosing the right space to grow vegetables and herbs is key to having an abundant harvest. People will think that you have a "green thumb", but in reality - you just planned well. To choose the right garden space, you'll need to take into consideration sunlight exposure, having a good water source, good quality soil, proximity to house and accessibility, and marking off the area that you select. Follow these tips for choosing the right garden space.


5 Tips for Choosing the Right Garden Space


  1. Sunlight Exposure

    Most plants need at least 6 to 8 hours of sun each day. Sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis (the biological process plants use to grow). Less than 6 hours and you’re working against mother nature. So, observe your yard over several weeks to see which parts get the most sunlight throughout the day. Although many vegetables require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, 8-10 hours is ideal for optimal growth and yields. If you have limited sunlight in your yard, then choose to grow plants such as herbs and leafy greens which can tolerate less sun.   


  2. Water Source and How Much to Water

    Be sure that the location you choose has a water source nearby; at least one where you can get to all parts of your garden with a hose. Also, be sure that the water source is clean. How much to water is important – too little and your plants die, too much and the nutrients will wash away. So, for temperatures at 60 F or 16 C you’ll need 1 inch of water per week; for temperatures at 75 F or 25 C, you’ll need 1.5 inches of water per week; and for temperatures at 80+ F or 27+ C, you’ll need 2 inches of water per week.


  3. Soil Quality

    Choose an area with soil that drains well to prevent waterlogging and root rot. You could have your soil tested to determine its pH and other nutrients. Also, amend your soil with compost to improve its nutrient levels and fertility. This is an important step; in fact, each year, you will want to add 2 inches of organic compost to your soil. The previous year’s vegetables and herbs took nutrients from the soil, so you need to put nutrients back in.


  4. Sunlit window with blinds half-open, two baskets of green lettuce growing on the sill, view of a lush garden outside. Bright and serene mood.

    Proximity to House and Accessibility

    Choose a space that is close to the house to ensure that you’ll visit and care for it each day. It’s important to notice what’s happening in your garden on a daily basis. When I open my blinds in the morning from my bedroom, I can see my garden, which prompts me to get out there and care for it. Also be sure the garden is easy to access from all sides and to work in. Lastly, have a nearby shed or container for storing gardening tools and supplies.


  5. Mark Out Your Growing Space

    Once you’ve found the right spot, mark it off with wooden spikes and string; or if using container beds, place them there in the spot.


Follow these tips and you'll have a garden that thrives and flourishes.


Resources:

Murphy, S., Grow Your Own Vegetables

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