Beets. Image from http://www.mybalconyjungle.com
I will use today to look at growing root vegetables the posh farmer’s way. I am happy to say that if you are interested, there is a lot of information out there about these things. I am surprised that more people are not growing their own food. You don’t need to be an expert to grow at least one thing.
Among the sites from which I found inspiration are http://www.mybalconyjungle.com, http://www.gardeningknowhow.com, http://www.vegetable-garden-guide.com and http://www.grow-it-organically.com. What I’ve come to realise is that growing root vegetables (radish, beets, carrots, etc) in containers is not a particularly challenging task. They all seem pretty easy to grow. Here are some key things I’ve picked up from my research:
- It is important to begin by preparing the soil well. Start with soil that is moist throughout. Pat the soil down evenly across the entire surface of the container and use your finger to make small impressions in the soil to the required depth for the seeds to be planted.
- These vegetables must start from seeds, they do not transplant well.
- Do not to put too any seeds in one container. The growing vegetable will need space for the roots to grow sideways. A 3 inch distance between plants is recommended.
- It is important to be gentle when watering a container with newly planted seeds. After the seeds have been planted add enough water to dampen the seeds. Try using a spray bottle and make sure that the soil is well moistened. This will ensure that the soil does not draw all that moisture away from the seeds. The spray bottle will help to control the watering process. If the soil is heavily watered after the seeds have been planted, the seeds may shift around or be washed further into the soil.
Carrot seedlings. Image from http://www.vegetable-garden-guide.com
- Do not underestimate the size of the roots. As they are root vegetables, they need space to grow. Use adequately sized containers of about 8-12 inch deep at minimum.
Carrots. Image from vegetable-garden-guide.com
- Place the container(s) where it(they) can get as much sunlight as possible (on the patio or by a glass window). With good sunlight the plants should remain low and spread out, resulting in roots that will stay in the ground. Without adequate sunlight, their roots may extend out of the soil (in search of light) and the root vegetables will be under-nourished (tall and flimsy). If the roots extend out of the soil, check the amount of light the container is getting. If it is receiving enough light, gently push the roots further into the ground or add more soil around them to keep the roots buried.
Happy Posh Farming!
Posh Farming 