How to Grow a Vegetable Garden

Planting and growing a vegetable garden isn't idiot proof. It's possible to add the wrong fertilizer, over or under water, etc. A garden has the best chance if it's started correctly from the beginning. After tilling the garden space, sprinkle a layer of compost on top and then till it again. Tilling is required for the best garden, as a hoe alone simply isn't enough. If the roots of the plants cannot grow down into the ground because the soil is too hard, they will die.

Watering is another common problem. When planting, water should be added to the holes for moisture and to loosen the dirt. The vegetable garden should be watered a few times a week, depending on how dry your area is. Plants should only be watered in the early morning or late evening when the sun is off the garden.

How to grow tomatoes

Tomatoes are best purchased as small plants rather than seeds. There are many different varieties of tomatoes available at greenhouses. If you haven't been around a vegetable garden, it's possible that you haven't heard of some of the tomato choices. For instance, I love yellow tomatoes.

Tomato plants should be in full sun exposure after the last winter frost. Spacing depends on the type of tomato plant. If it's a taller tomato plant that will need staking or a cage, the plants need to be adequately spaced. Rows should be wide enough to allow movement between the plants for harvesting. Tomato plants mature in approximately 65 - 70 days.

How to grow corn

While corn can be started from plants, it's more economical to use seeds. Plant a few rows of corn at least five feet in length and two feet apart. Seeds should be about three inches apart. Corn should be planted in full sun exposure after the last frost.

Unlike tomatoes, corn isn't self-pollinating. This means that several stalks of corn are needed to pollinate each other. Furthermore, corn shouldn't be watered from the top because it could hurt the pollination process. Corn will mature in about 60 - 90 days. Fresh corn is a huge hit at summer barbecues and can be grilled in the husk.

How to grow broccoli

Broccoli is another vegetable that starts well from seeds. Since broccoli doesn't do well in hot weather, it should be started indoors about five weeks before the last frost to allow time to mature before hot weather. Another option is to plant it in autumn. Broccoli should be planted about ten inches apart in full sun, but light shade is okay. Maturity will occur in 80 - 100 days. To prevent flowering and damage, broccoli should be watered from the ground.

How to grow summer squash

Crookneck and straightneck summer squash is a staple in most vegetable gardens. Since squash plants can be a little delicate, it is best to go with plants rather than seeds. Since these two types of squash grow wide and tall, they need to be about two feet apart. Squash plants need to be planted with a good garden soil added. Squash should be watered regularly and kept moist, but not wet. Squash plants will mature in about 50 to 60 days.