Even if you have never picked up a hoe before, there are some simple ways to start gardening no matter what month we’re in.  Here is one of my favorites – potatoes in a bag! Just go buy a bag of good grade of regular or organic potting mix. I double bag mine to prevent Homer the wonder-dog from scratching the sides open and then place and plant. This one has a potato planted slightly deeper than you would in a row as you will not be hilling it.

You might want to try a container of greens. Try Parris Inland Cos a romaine that is heat tolerant as well as New Zealand spinach. What about a superfood like an eggplant or a pepper?  They love warm weather but will need to be staked as they will get top heavy when laden with fruit. 

With the popularity of container gardening, many new varieties of vegetables designed for containers are available.

The biggest mistake I have made with containers is using regular soil instead of potting soil mix. Soil compaction makes it difficult for plants to receive air and nutrients so please stick with potting soil or make your own. 

I use one part garden soil to one part good quality potting soil and one part perlite or vermiculite.  Gardening with containers means you can choose to incorporate flowers with veggies.

Can you identify the veggies in these pots?

German greens, Chinese cabbage, purple cauliflower, onions and chives! 

What combinations will you try?  Can’t wait to hear from you! Annie