While it's been a cooler Summer than in previous years in general, with a few scorching days here and there, if you're growing veg, make sure to water them sparingly and only in the evening or early morning so you don't burn their leaves.
Use lots of mulch to aid water retention - there should be no soil exposed to the sun, and a thick layer of mulch makes all the difference. One way to remember to do this is to imagine yourself in the sun – if your skin was exposed for hours, you'd burn badly! The earth is the same.
If you are tending to veggies, it's best to use water that's already been used once – from the shower, sink or washing machine (if you use biodegradable products). It's amazing how much water you can recycle if you get the right sized basins!
While water shortages aren't as dire as they have been in previous years, as resilient Cape Tonians, we need to maintain water-wise behaviors. It's remarkable how our relationship with water has irreversibly changed, and may we continue to find creative ways to be more resource-efficient beyond water, and to see waste itself as a resource. There's no better place to learn that lesson than in the garden.
On that fertile note, here's the plant list for March:
Bush and climber beans, Beetroot, Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, Cabbage, Calendula, Carrot, Chard/Spinach, Celery, Chinese cabbage, Chives, Chilli's, Kale, Kohlrabi, Globe artichokes, Leeks, Leaf mustard, Lettuce, Onion, Parsnip, Parsley, Potato, Radish, Rhubarb, Tomato
If you have surplus seeds or veggies, why not reach out on our Patchwork Facebook group to share or to do a swap..? It's a great way to connect with other local food growers in the area.
Happy growing!
Patchwork Group
Gabriella Garnett
076 2199 849 | gabriella.garnett@gmail.com
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