How to use any space to grow your own produce
best for GARDEN IDEAS
Growing your own fruit and veg needn’t be just for those with huge gardens and allotment plots.
You can reap the rewards by using your space creatively, and with Summer around the corner, there’s no time like the present to get started.
GROWING UPWARDS With the right support – be it canes or a framework against a wall or fenceyou can maximise all that free space above the ground. Try these:
● Cucumbers All types benefit from a sheltered, sunny position, so keep this in mind when choosing your location. Their seeds are flat and oval shaped, and risk developing rot if not sown on their edges. When the risk of frost has passed, and the plant has developed its second pair of leaves, move it into a larger container that’s a mix of compost and manure.
● Beans Pick climbing beans, rather than dwarf beans – they will naturally grow upwards, giving you more produce for your space. Fill a grow bag with compost and place four canes, one in each corner, and tie them together at the top to form a small teepee shape. At this time of year they can be sown directly but cover with netting to protect against hungry pests.
● Note Secure new seedlings to your support structure by tying a loose knot with garden string, or adjustable plant clips. Once the plants have grown more, they’ll adhere to your frame.
USING POTS There are a lot of advantages to containers. They’re portable, so you can reposition when required, and it’s easier to control the soil quality.
Choose well-draining soil and asunny spot for carrots
●Tomatoes like growing upwards, so stake with canes to stop the bushes collapsing. If you’ve grown from seeds, it’s time to move your plants to their final spot. Specially designed tomato grow bags provide bespoke soil conditions in a small space. If you haven’t sown seeds yet, buy a ready grown plant like Dobbies Pick & Joy range, from £14.99. Water regularly and consistently.
● Carrots want well draining soil in a sunny spot, and it’s easier to control conditions in a container. Ensure the pot has holes and gravel-sized stones will help improve soil structure. Add compost and sow seeds directly in small rows, covering with netting while they germinate. Sow sparsely to avoid carrot fly. Tomato plants emit a chemical that repels this pest so position them close by!
