Would you like your own veggies and herbs…

As a wellness coach who is passionate about wholesome living and the benefits of fresh produce, I am thrilled to guide you through creating your very own veggie garden or raised boxes.

There is something truly special about tending to your own plants and enjoying the flavorful bounty they provide. In this step-by-step tutorial, I will share insights on cultivating spinach, kale, mint, red peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, celery, cilantro, and basil.

From preparing the soil to mastering the art of watering, let's embark on this journey together towards creating a vibrant garden brimming with nourishing goodness for your meals, salads, and revitalizing green juices.

Designing a Hot House:

If you're looking to take your gardening game to the next level and extend your growing season, setting up a hot house can be a fantastic option. Here are some tips on designing a hot house for your plants:

- Choose a sunny location: Select a spot that receives ample sunlight throughout the day to maximize plant growth and warmth within the hot house.

- Opt for a suitable structure: Consider using a greenhouse kit or building a DIY structure using clear plastic or glass to create a warm and sheltered environment for your plants.

- Provide ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation within the hot house to prevent overheating and allow air circulation for optimal plant health.

- Regulate temperature: Consider using a thermometer and potentially incorporating heating elements or fans to maintain ideal temperature levels for your plants.

Designing Pots and Boxes in a Smaller Space:

If you have limited space but still want to grow your own fresh produce, designing pots and boxes can be a space-efficient solution. Here are some ideas for maximizing your gardening potential in a smaller area:

- Utilize vertical space: Opt for vertical planters or hanging baskets to grow herbs, strawberries, and other compact plants without taking up valuable ground space.

- Choose the right containers: Select pots and boxes that are the appropriate size for your plants, ensuring they have proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

- Consider stacking options: Explore tiered planter boxes or stackable pots to create a multi-level garden display and maximize planting space in a vertical arrangement.

- Incorporate movable containers: Use wheeled planters or pots to easily rearrange your garden layout and follow the sunlight throughout the day for optimal growth.

By incorporating these design strategies, you can transform even the smallest of spaces into a thriving oasis filled with an abundance of fresh veggies and herbs to elevate your culinary creations and wellness journey.

Veggies:

Spinach: Plant spinach seeds in well-draining soil with lots of organic matter. Keep the soil consistently moist and avoid letting it dry out completely. Harvest when the leaves are young and tender for the best flavor.

Kale: Choose a sunny spot for your kale. Plant seedlings or seeds in rich, well-drained soil. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. Harvest the outer leaves for continuous growth.

Red Peppers: Red peppers love warm weather. Plant seedlings in nutrient-rich soil with good drainage. Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Harvest when the peppers are firm and fully red.

Tomatoes: Plant tomato seedlings in well-draining soil with plenty of sun. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Stake or cage the plants as they grow. Harvest ripe tomatoes when they are fully colored.

Herbs:

Mint: Mint thrives in rich, moist soil. Plant mint in a pot to prevent spreading. Water regularly, especially during hot weather. Harvest leaves as needed by pinching off the top growth.

Strawberries: Plant strawberry seedlings in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture. Water consistently, especially during fruiting season. Harvest ripe strawberries when they have fully developed color.

Celery: Celery prefers rich, moist soil. Plant seedlings in fertile soil and keep consistently moist. Celery appreciates partial shade in hot climates. Harvest outside stalks from the base as needed.

Cilantro and Basil: Cilantro and basil both enjoy well-drained soil and plenty of sun. Plant seedlings in good quality potting mix. Water consistently and avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Harvest leaves as needed, pinching off the top growth.

Remember, growing your own veggies and herbs can be a rewarding experience. Enjoy using your fresh produce in meals, salads, and juices to enhance your overall wellness and health.

Winter is a great time to prep your space and get ready. Come spring you plant and get ready…. then the fun really begins!

It’s so satisfying growing your own produce. I hope you try.

Rue