Calgary Gardening- Tips & Tricks From The Professionals
Now that Calgary winter is over, it’s time to start thinking about an organic garden. There are so many benefits to having your own garden including avoiding GMO’s and pesticides, saving money, showing children where food comes from, convenience, a great new hobby, and can make your landscape even more beautiful
If you are a beginning gardener in Calgary, and are feeling overwhelmed, here are some tips to reduce wasted time and energy.
KNOW YOUR CLIMATE
In Calgary, the weather is unpredictable to say the least. Beets, onions, parsnips, carrots, potatoes, zucchini and the lettuce family are especially recommended.
FLOWERS
Planting flowers around your garden attracts bees and other helpful insects that will deter common unwanted critters. In addition, while sitting on your patio your backyard will be that much more beautiful.
KNOW THE EASIEST VEGETABLES TO PLANT AND MAINTAIN
Carrots, parsnips, turnips and beets are simple to grow since the vegetable is the root. Smaller variety tomatoes (like cherry) grow in smaller spaces and don’t require a trellis. Tip- planting basil near tomatoes is a natural insect repellent.
CROWDING PLANTS
Overcrowding plants is a common mistake. When this happens, vegetables have to compete for nutrients, the garden bed will dry out quickly, and the poor air quality increases the chances of pests and fungal diseases. If you would like to plant more than you have room for, a simple solution is a raised garden bed. The benefits of a raised garden bed include improved drainage, uses space more efficiently and simplifies the control of weeds and pests.
MULCH
In addition to being visually appealing, mulch is important for many different reasons including
- Reducing weeds to minimize root competition
- Helps maintain stable soil temperatures keeping the heat out during summer and cold during Calgary’s long cold winters.
- Retaining water helping to keep the root moist, prevents water from running off which in turn saves money on your irrigation and water bill.
- Prevents soil compaction
PLANTING TOO MANY VARIETIES
While it’s tempting to want to try a little of everything, if you are a beginner it’s best to keep your garden as simple as possible. Love fresh salsa and homemade spaghetti sauce? Plant tomatoes. Zucchini breads and quiches? Plant zucchini.
KEEP A GARDENING PROFILE BOOK
Having a binder to keep all the tags your vegetables come with will keep all the information in 1 place in case you forget just when those carrots will be ready and how much water those tomatoes need.
If you ever need further insight or professional help, reach out to us, Calgary’s Top Rated Local® Landscaping Team. We can help!
