I've been growing a vegetable garden in my backyard for several years with great success, thanks to the excellent quality of the soil (it used to be farmland). Typically, I harvest plenty of tomatoes, zucchinis, and cucumbers, but this year has been a real letdown. After tilling in the spring, we tried a new method where we laid down cardboard and used mulch to control weeds. While the weeds are under control, my plants are not thriving. I live in Pennsylvania, and despite having enough rain and supplemental watering, the plants are small and unproductive. I've only harvested a couple of tomatoes from four plants, no zucchinis at all, and the few cucumbers I've grown taste weird. Could this cardboard be affecting water access, or is something else going on? I'm really frustrated and would appreciate any advice.
3 Answers
This weather has been wild! I’ve noticed the same thing—my plants are average and weeds are out of control. I think the fluctuations in temperature are messing with growth cycles. Just keep at it; maybe things will bounce back next year!
You're not alone! I’m in Minnesota and also struggling with my garden this year—lots of rain, yet no zucchinis! It's frustrating! Maybe the weather is just messing with everything? I’ve got tons of flowers on my plants, but no fruit yet. Hang in there!
I’m in Indiana, and it’s been a rough season as well. Heavy rain delayed my planting, and now I’m dealing with pests and diseases. It’s tough to stay optimistic, but we have to keep trying!
Totally get that! I’ve had flowers too, but nothing I can eat. It’s like the plants are confused!