I'm taking a good look at my garden and reevaluating which plants to grow next year. With a nearby Farmer's Market offering fantastic produce, I'm questioning the value of certain crops. For example, a single pepper plant takes up a square foot from mid-May to October, yielding limited produce. Compare that to a tomato plant, which can provide 20-30 pounds of fruit in the same space! I'm considering smaller grow bags for some unique pepper varieties, but overall, I'm thinking about where to get the most yield for my effort. Are there certain plants you find just aren't worth the trouble?
3 Answers
Next year, I’m only doing peppers in pots because they just don't thrive in my raised beds. I’m skipping borage too—talk about a self-seeding nightmare! This year is all about the corn, beans, and exploring the Three Sisters method instead.
I've been thinking about putting my peppers in containers as well. It seems more manageable that way!
I'm done with squash and melons! The squash bugs have haunted my gardening dreams. They just make it too much of a hassle to bother with them anymore. I really think I'll be taking a break from those next year!
Totally feel you! I hope that not planting will help break the cycle of pests for me. Here's to hoping!
So true! I’ve been building separate beds just for squash, believing it would help. We’ll see how that goes next year!
I stopped growing zucchini years ago because I’d end up with so much that nobody wanted. I just get my summer squash from the market now. Instead, I focus on winter squashes like butternut and acorn which store much better. Like you mentioned, I’m making room for veggies that keep longer and are more practical for my space.
They keep beautifully, I do the same with onions, garlic, and dry beans. Just more practical and much less hassle!
I agree! I find freezing squash cubes is so much easier than dealing with massive yields. Plus, they can double up in recipes!
I've had mixed results with potted plants too, especially peppers—makes sense to change it up!