Dig Down Deep—and Get Growing

Remember when we helped you perfectly prep your garden for spring? Of course, you do! Now that you’ve worked the soil and created a compost (you have, right?), it’s time to start planting.

Do you know what fruits and veggies will grow best in our area? Spring in Indiana means it’s time for cauliflower, eggplant, broccoli, and brussels sprouts.

But when exactly should you plant? If you’re really feeling lost, most seed packets will tell you the ideal timeline for planting.

The key to a lush garden is knowing when to (and when not to) water. Too much water could lead to root rot, and not watering enough will dry out the plants. The best time to water is in the morning when the ground is still cool, so there’s plenty of time for the plants to dry. Aim for the base of the plant to get right to the roots.

Give the seeds enough space to comfortably grow. If seedlings start growing too close, they will crowd each other out and won’t grow as high. Find the right distance for your plants and measure them out with a yardstick. Pull out any stray seeds to prevent growing in the gaps.

After all the seeds are ready, add fertilizer to nurture the plants. If you don’t want to use store-bought fertilizer, there are plenty of great ways to make your own with salt, coffee grounds, and eggshells.

Feeding your family from the backyard is easier than it seems. Keep following our gardening series for more ways to help your plants thrive. Good luck—and be sure to share pictures of your garden-planting prowess!