Grow Green and Eat It Too | Family Economics

By Lori

Growing your vegetables is not only fun, it’s eco-friendly and it’s cheaper than buying in the grocery store. It’s also something that can be done with your family and that’s my favorite part.

I’ve compiled a little quick start guide to get those vegetables from the garden to your table in a flash!

CARROTS – Sow directly in the garden two to three weeks before the last expected frost.
• LIGHT: Full sun
• WATER: Once per week, less as plant matures
• EAT: 45-85 days

BELL PEPPERS – Start seeds indoors eight weeks before the last frost, using 2-inch or slightly larger pots. Transplant outdoors after soil reaches 70-85° F.
• LIGHT: Full sun
• WATER: Once per week
• EAT: 65-85 days

LIMA BEANS –Plant approximately two weeks after the average date of the last frost.
• LIGHT: Full sun
• WATER: Soil should have a good drainage and must be kept moist, but not soaked.
• EAT: Seven-30 days, based on soil temperature.

TOMATOES –Tomato transplants can be grown indoors from seeds in six to eight weeks. Move them to the garden one or two weeks after the average last frost date for your area.
• LIGHT: Full sun
• WATER: Once per week
• EAT: 55-90 days

LETTUCE – Plant outside as soon as the ground is no longer frozen. Seeds will germinate when the soil temperature is as low as 45° F.
• LIGHT: Full sun
• WATER: Even moisture
• EAT: 40-85 days

If you have a small area and think you can’t grow your own garden, don’t give up! Check out your local library or bookstore for great books on gardening for small spaces. If you need more inspiration, look online for people who have chronicled their journey to growing vegetables and herbs in places just like yours.