1. This week we planted sweet corn about 10-15 inches apart in the row and spaced the rows 36’’ apart, several rows were planted to encourage cross-pollination. We can always thin out the row if it becomes too crowded.

2. On our wire fences (4’’x 2’’ square openings) we started our vertical gardening techniques. We planted several varieties of cucumbers right up against the fence and also 2 varieties of pumpkins on another fence. We also planted zucchini all from 3’’ peat pots. These plants are about 5 weeks old from our greenhouses. We hardened them off for three days before planting.

3. Container gardening: Many viewers do not have a garden, but may wish to grow plants on their balconies or patios. Select a spacious container with adequate drain holes. Also, use a “light” potting soil. By “light” I mean porous enough so the soil medium does not pack hard. A good mixture might contain peatmoss, perlite, composted wood products, and perhaps 10 to 20% topsoil. The potting soil we used also had a wetting agent incorporated in the mix to relieve drought stress between waterings. In this 20’’ diameter container we planted sweet basil, oregano sage, and thyme, this might seem like a lot for this size pot, but we hope to begin harvesting in 4 or 5 weeks and enhance our cooking!

Tip of the week: