July 2024
- Select the Plot
- I chose a 10x14 full-sun patch of lawn next to the back porch. I deployed a heavy tarp to begin smothering the grass.
- HOA architectural review committee approved the change
- Soil Testing:
- Take soil samples and send them for analysis to understand nutrient levels and pH.
- Review results to determine any necessary amendments.
I ordered some heirloom seeds from Missouri (rareseeds.com).
| Seeds |
|---|
| Carrot Seeds, Oxheart SKU: CR126 |
| Arugula Seeds, Common SKU: OG106 |
| Pea Seeds, Sugar Bon Snap SKU: SN115 |
| Beet Seeds, Bull's Blood SKU: BT101 |
| Broccoli Seeds, Waltham 29 SKU: BR105 |
| Cabbage Seeds, Golden Acre SKU: CB122 |
| Cilantro Seeds, Slo-Bolt SKU: HB143 |
| Cucumber Seeds, Aonaga Jibai SKU: CU120 |
| Dill Seeds, Elephant SKU: HB180 |
| Lettuce Seeds, May Queen SKU: LT118 |
| Okra Seeds, Heavy Hitter SKU: OK114 |
| Onion Seeds, Yellow Sweet Spanish SKU: ON135 |
| Onion Seeds, Ishikura Bunching SKU: ON125 |
| Sweet Pepper Seeds, California Wonder SKU: PP106 |
| Spinach Seeds, Merlo Nero SKU: SP105 |
| Tomato Seeds, Cherokee Purple SKU: TP101 |
August 2024
Planning and Preparation:
- Finalize layout, mark boundaries, install corner posts for trellis wires.
- Finalize vegetables to grow and their planting schedule.
- Start acquiring cool-season plants: peas, garlic, etc.
Clearing the Grass:
- Add a layer of compost or mulch to begin enriching the soil.
September 2024
- Planting Cool-Season Crops:
- Direct sow seeds for lettuce, spinach, arugula, radishes, carrots, beets, turnips, broccoli, or cabbage.
- Plant peas and garlic.
October 2024
Soil Amendments:
- Begin adding organic soil amendments based on soil test results (e.g., lime to adjust pH, compost for nutrients).
Maintaining Cool-Season Crops:
- Water regularly and ensure proper spacing for optimal growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
November 2024
Composting:
- Continue adding compost to the plot to improve soil structure and fertility.
- Turn the soil gently if needed to incorporate organic material.
Harvesting Early Crops:
- Begin harvesting fast-growing crops like radishes and lettuce.
December 2024
Resting the Soil:
- Allow the soil to rest and continue to break down organic matter.
- Plan any irrigation systems needed for the garden.
Continued Harvest:
- Continue harvesting leafy greens and root vegetables as they mature.
January 2025
- Tilling and Aerating:
- Till the soil to a depth of at least 8-12 inches, breaking up any compacted areas.
- Aerate the soil if necessary to improve drainage and root penetration.
February 2025
- Final Soil Preparation:
- Add a final layer of compost and till it into the soil.
- Level the garden bed and with landscaping rake and create raised rows or mounds depending on plant needs.
March 2025
- Starting Seeds Indoors:
- Begin starting seeds indoors for early crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
- Prepare seed trays and place them in a warm, sunny spot or under grow lights.
April 2025
- Planting Early Crops:
- As the risk of frost diminishes, begin planting early crops like lettuce, spinach, and peas directly into the garden.
- Harden off indoor-started seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
May 2025
- Planting Warm-Season Crops:
- Transplant warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants into the garden.
- Direct sow seeds for squash, beans, and cucumbers.
June 2025
- Garden Maintenance:
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Begin regular watering and fertilizing as needed.
- Trellis?
- Consider installing steel cables between the corner posts as overhead attachment points for suspended plant supports.
July 2025
- Harvesting and Care:
- Continue to care for your garden, harvesting crops as they ripen.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, and manage them organically as needed.
- Wildlife Deterrents:
- Consider wrapping the corner posts with hardware cloth or chicken wire as a wildlife barrier.
Resources
- NCSU Extension - North Carolina Vegetable Planting Guide (source) (Thanks, Matthew!)