Hey everyone! With everything happening in the world, I've decided to grow my own vegetables to reduce my grocery store dependency and become more self-sufficient. Since I'm completely new to this, I'm in serious need of recommendations for resources to get started. Books are my top choice, but I'm open to videos, websites, or social media content that would offer a solid foundation for a first-time gardener. Additionally, I have limited space and need tips for gardening in small areas or on surfaces like concrete or wood. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
"The Vegetable Gardening Book" by Joe Lampl is another excellent beginner book. You might also want to check out "Vegetable Gardener's Bible" by Edward Smith. Both are informative and can guide you through the basics of gardening! Plus, don't overlook local resources; university extension offices often provide tailored advice.
For a solid start, I recommend checking out "The Vegetable Gardener’s Bible." You can either buy it or borrow it from your local library. It covers a wide range of basic vegetable crops with helpful info on how to grow them from seed to harvest. Also, don't miss the chance to explore books on raised bed and square foot gardening; they usually offer unique insights. And don't forget the Old Farmer’s Almanac for your frost dates and local gardening insights! Keep it simple your first year; it can be tempting to dive in with lots of seeds, but maybe start with a few veggies that you buy often. Trust me, you’ll find the process way less overwhelming this way!
A great way to kick off is by growing what you already buy from the store! For example, tomatoes are super rewarding as one or two plants can yield a ton. Think about plants that grow vertically to save space; vining crops like cucumbers and pole beans can help maximize your limited area. Also, local extension offices are fantastic resources for monthly planting calendars and specific advice for your area. Don’t forget to check out local seed exchanges – you can save costs and get a diverse range of seeds. Containers, even repurposed ones like toilet paper rolls, are perfect for starting seeds too!
Great tips! I totally agree about finding unique seeds; radishes are a fun starter that grows fast and gives instant gratification!
Absolutely! Starting with a few favorites really helps you focus and enjoy the journey. Plus, having a mix of edible plants like greens that you can continuously harvest from will keep your garden thriving!