By Laura Norfolk, ABC
Alexandria, VA – Growing up with a long history of family farmers, I’ve missed working in the dirt. I didn’t think vegetable gardening was possible here with such small spaces, but it is! Here are some tips to start your own backyard/container organic garden.
- Start small and choose your favorite vegetables or herbs. Visit www.almanac.com/gardening/planting-calendar to see which vegetables will grow in this area and when to plant them. Consider companion planting to help plants thrive (www.almanac.com/companion-planting-guide-vegetables).
- Choose a planter. For yards, a simple designated area or raised planter works great. For patios or balconies, a raised planter on legs and/or large container pots are needed. Get large enough pots to support root systems – at least 3 times the size of the plant with drainage holes.
- Find a space that receives the most sunlight in the day. You can start your garden, raised bed, or container garden there. Containers can be moved around depending on sunlight.
- Collect and take your compost to Alexandria City Compost drop-off sites. Be sure to come home with composted soil to plant your vegetables in. This is a free service in Alexandria!
- Use organic soil and organic fertilizer for your planters. My favorites are AgroThrive fertilizer and Back to the Roots Organic Soil Mix (thanks to my aunt who owned a nursery for decades before retiring).
- Order/buy your seeds and plant as directed. Many local nurseries sell seeds and/or Burpees.com is always a go-to.
- Watch your garden grow! Monitor water daily and fertilize with organic fertilizer per instructions.
Soon you’ll be eating fresh from your garden and sharing your rewards with neighbors and friends.
ICYMI: Nats Blast Their Way to a 6-1 Win Over Seattle
