I'm starting my first garden in Alaska, where there's still snow on the ground! With the high cost of produce here since everything is shipped in, I'm really eager to grow my own food. I know it's late spring, but I'm ready to jump in anyway. I have a decent area for planting that's been treated for high acidity and has a mix of clay and gravel. I've heard barley is one of the few grains that can grow here, but I'm not too familiar with cooking it yet. Any tips on what to plant or how to get started would be super helpful!
3 Answers
A greenhouse could make a huge difference! I know they can be pricey, but they really extend your growing season. If you're on a budget, maybe look into some DIY options? They don't have to be fancy to get you started!
Hey there! I've done some gardening in a chilly place like Montana, and I suggest using raised garden beds. They help extend your growing season before the freeze hits again. Just be sure to wait until after the last frost to plant anything. Check out the USDA gardening zone map too; it’s really helpful!
You're actually not too late to start seeds! I’m in Anchor Point and, even though I’ve already started some crops, you can still get a lot of things going. Now’s a great time for brassicas (like kale and cabbage) since they do well when planted early. Potatoes and snap peas are a breeze and grow fantastic up here, plus you can direct sow them. Radishes and beets are other quick wins! Just focus on growing what you enjoy eating, and definitely consider getting some fast-maturing varieties. A greenhouse can give you a few extra weeks to play with, but even without one, you'll be fine!
Thanks for the advice! I really love kale and beets, so I'll definitely add those to my list!
I wish! Maybe down the line, I can figure something out on a budget.