PLANTING YOUR GARDEN HARVEST, NO MATTER HOW SMALL

Gardening is an inexpensive hobby that provides fresh produce and a rewarding and relaxing experience. With grocery prices rising and many of us trying to buy more Canadian produce, our approaching summer is an excellent opportunity to try out your green thumb. Whether you have a spacious backyard or just a few pots on a balcony, you can grow fruits and vegetables successfully. This month, we offer tips on when to start planting indoors, options for small greenhouses, and the best crops to plant in Southern Ontario gardens.

Start Seeds Indoors

Starting seeds indoors is a great way to get a head start on the growing season, especially in Southern Ontario regions where the growing season can be relatively short. Seeds can be started indoors six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date, typically the long weekend in May. Ideally, start seeds in March or April. If you’re starting a bit late or indoor lighting is insufficient, use grow lights to speed up the process.

Tips for Indoor Planting

  • Use seed trays or small pots with drainage holes.
  • Ensure they are clean to prevent disease.
  • Select a seed-starting mix that is light and well-draining.
  • Potting soil can be a bit heavy and dense for seedlings.
  • Provide adequate light, such as grow lights, to ensure at least 12-16 hours daily.
  • Maintain a temperature of 18-24°C (65-75°F) to promote germination.
  • Purchase a heat mat or set up a table in a warm room.
  • Keep soil moist but not soaked using a spray bottle instead of heavy watering.

Greenhouse Options

A small greenhouse can extend your growing season, protect plants from harsh weather, and provide an ideal environment for seed-starting and young plants. Here are some options for small greenhouses suitable for suburban backyards or patios.

  • Walk-in greenhouses offer more space and are suitable for more extensive gardens. They allow you to grow various plants and tend to them comfortably.
  • Mini greenhouses are compact and can fit on a balcony or patio. They are perfect for starting seeds and protecting young plants.
  • Cold frames are low-profile, box-like structures with a transparent lid. They use solar energy to create a warm environment for plants.
  • Pop-up greenhouses are portable and easy to set up. They are great for temporary use and can be moved around as needed.

Best Fruit and Vegetable Options

  • Leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach and salad bowl greens are cool-weather crops that can be planted in the garden in early spring and again in the fall. From seed to yield takes approximately four to six weeks. Keep a pot in your kitchen in a sunny location for daily use.
  • Tomatoes thrive in warm weather and are perfect for ground planting and pots. Hanging pots have become popular and provide more versatility in small spaces.
  • Peppers, both sweet and hot, grow well in gardens and pots. They enjoy sunny spots and well-drained soil.
  • Cucumbers are easy to grow and produce abundant yields. They can be trained to climb, saving space in your garden.
  • Beans, both bush and pole beans, are excellent choices. They are easy to grow and provide continuous harvests throughout the season.
  • Strawberries are perfect for pots or hanging baskets. They enjoy full sun and well-drained soil.
  • Raspberries can be grown in containers or planted directly in the ground. They prefer a sunny spot and well-drained soil.
  • Blueberries require acidic soil and are well-suited to container gardening. Ensure they receive plenty of sunlight.
  • Dwarf apple and peach trees can be successfully grown in backyards with full sun and well-drained soil.

This season, planting more fruits and vegetables can bring healthy options to your table while saving you money at the grocery store and providing a relaxing hobby. You can ensure a bountiful harvest by starting seeds indoors, utilizing small greenhouses, and choosing the best crops for your space. Happy gardening!

By Julie Achtermeier