Monthly Plan

the plot

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