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Monday, May 11, 2020

Interested in Growing Your Own Food This Year? by Rita Stafford

CSU - Planttalk Colorado
Establishing your own vegetable garden can be done very economically depending on your choice of materials and the size of your project. The benefits of growing your own food range from...
 
Markus Spiske, Anaya Katlego, Jesshoots.com on Unsplash
l Knowing how your food is grown and that it is healthy and nutritious
l Having a project the whole family can be involved in
l Exercise and time outdoors in nature
…and much, much more!

Before you can start planting seeds or seedlings there are a few things to consider.

First you'll want to determine how much space you have that provides good sunlight for a garden.
Here's a great short article on choosing a site:  CSU-Planttalk

Next think about how you want to use that space.
 
Marcus Spiske on Unsplash
l Do you have good soil to plant directly into the ground, perhaps a previous garden bed?
l Or, if starting from scratch, maybe a raised bed would be a good choice. There are many benefits to this option.
l If your space is really limited maybe just a few containers would do the trick. I've had good luck growing vegetable in pots on an apartment balcony!
Markus Spiske, Chu Tai on Unsplash 

Finally you'll need to plan around your budget. Depending on what you may already have on hand and the size and type of garden you choose, the costs of getting started will vary. Purchasing materials, soil and/or soil amendments for starters. Then, of course, the seeds and/or starter plants you'll want to grow in your new garden. Consider what you have room for and time to manage as well as monetary expenses.

Sound a bit overwhelming? Don't worry!

Our Colorado Master Gardener Program, backed by scientific research and experience, is here to help.

As a new gardener or an experienced gardener looking for new ideas or tips, we offer the online, easy to access information you need to plan and grow the best vegetable garden for your family and maybe even have plenty to share.

For more information, and help to make the right decisions when starting your home vegetable garden, just click this link:   Grow-Give

Here you'll find articles and videos designed to help you succeed in growing your own garden for food