Edible Gardening Tips for Ottawa Gardeners

Growing your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs is possible no matter how much space you have. Whether it’s a large backyard garden or a few containers on your front porch, balcony, or patio, there are plenty of ways to enjoy fresh, homegrown food right from your own garden here in the Ottawa Valley.

This blog talks about how to grow fruit (yes! It's possible), herbs and vegetables. 

In recent years, one of the fastest growing areas in gardening has been seeds, vegetables, fruit trees, and berry bushes. While this may be partly tied to economic factors, let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to save money on their grocery bill? That said, anyone who has grown their own food, or been gifted a basket of fresh tomatoes or cucumbers from a neighbour, knows that homegrown simply tastes better. If you have never tried growing your own fruits, vegetables, or herbs, start simple with a patio tomato and a pot of fresh basil.

Key Factors and Tips for a Successful Fruit, Vegetable, and Herb Garden

Good Light
Most edible plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Be sure to place your garden beds or patio containers in a location where they receive plenty of sun.

Rich Soil
Healthy, loamy, well drained soil enriched with composted manure is essential. Good soil is the foundation of a productive garden.

Good Air Circulation
Avoid planting vegetables too close together. Proper spacing allows for better air movement, which helps reduce the risk of disease, powdery mildew, and blight.

Fertilizing
Whether you garden organically or not, regular feeding helps increase yields and promotes strong, healthy plants. Choose fertilizers designed specifically for vegetables, fruits, or tomatoes.

Watering
Consistent watering encourages deep root systems and results in healthier, more resilient plants.

A Well Stocked Garden Shed
Problems can arise quickly in the garden, so it is helpful to be prepared. Stakes, twine, and twist ties help support plants and prevent branches from breaking under the weight of fruit.

Eco Friendly Pest and Disease Control
Insecticidal soap is an effective and environmentally friendly option for managing pests during the height of summer. Sulphur is a reliable defence against leaf diseases, powdery mildew, and blight, which often appear in hot, humid weather.

Fertilizer Options
There are many ways to feed your plants. Keep fertilizers on hand that are formulated for vegetables, fruits, or tomatoes. Organic gardeners should also consider seaweed or kelp based fertilizers, as well as bone meal and blood meal.

There have always been many reasons to grow some of your own food. It can increase self sufficiency, teach children valuable and joyful skills, save money, or simply allow you to step outside and harvest a fresh salad when the mood strikes. Whatever your reason, it does not get more local than your own backyard.

Join us this season and grow something edible.

Kelly