In order to produce a healthy crop it’s important to prepare the soil before any planting or sowing begins so the first job is to harvest and remove any summer crops that are finished. Then take out any weeds and dig in a generous amount of organic matter, such as compost, manure and mulch to the soil and raised beds.
Generally, the vegetables you grow at this time of year are classed as ‘cool season’ veggies as they prefer the slightly cooler temperatures toward the end of summer.
Carrots, such as ‘scarlet nantes’ are ideal to plant now. They need deep, loose, well-drained soil and the seed can be sown directly into the veg plot. Cover the seed lightly with soil and keep watered until germination. Thin the seedlings out when two or three leaves appear, leaving a space of about 3cm between each seedling.
Top tip – watering the seedlings as they develop with a mixture of Epsom salts and water will give a sweeter taste to the carrots!
You’ll also be wanting to be growing some lovely salad for a delicious, refreshing meal during the hot Summer months so plant some spring onions, peppers, cucumber, radish, varieties of lettuce, and tomatoes. Also, how about some gorgeous, sweet strawberries for a sweet , succulent dessert.
If you’ve space it’s a good idea to plant a few herbs now. Not only will they add flavour to any dish, they smell wonderful! Herbs are very versatile and will thrive in containers or the ground. Popular varieties include basil, thyme, oregano, chives, sage, French tarragon and rosemary.Try to plant the herbs in a sunny spot near the kitchen door so they’re easily accessible.
Thyme is available in several different flavours and will flourish anywhere in the garden, even between pavers. It doesn’t mind being trodden on! Ever popular Mint is also a valuable herb, why not try some mint tea? Delicious! Mint does need to be grown in a container as it will spread rapidly in the ground.
Parsley will grow in a shadier area, along with Parsley and Chives. Oregano will live happily in a semi-shaded spot, Coriander also prefers a semi-shaded position, and can be inclined to flower and go to seed quickly if the leaves aren’t picked regularly.
Enjoy fresh summer vegetables
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We at village gardens have a knowledge of all of your local edible plants here in South Africa. We can happily plant up your garden with edibles of all varieties from Mediterranean herbs and local indigenous edibles. We are surrounded by such stunning hardy indigenous plants, let’s get back to nature and have our own garden of local goodness.
