Beautiful, edible gardens.

Stinging Nettle - Urtica dioica

2009-08-18T03:16:00.000-07:00

Many folk despise the common nettle: it's sting and vigorous growing habit are enough to send gardeners into a weeding frenzy. But before doing so you should at least know a little more about this plant.

Species
I'm focusing on the common nettle also known as the stinging nettle. This being the more common, so much so that if you want lots of it it wont be hard to find.

Uses
Nettles take up various nutrients from the soil - nitrogen, phosphate, iron, protein and silica. So, nettles make a good addition to the compost heap as well as making a great liquid fertilizer:

Get hold of some nettles and push them into the bottom of a container, cover with rainwater and soak for a month or two. To use, sieve and dilute the liquid produced with more rainwater in a 1:10 ratio. There is a problem with wet fertilizer being extremely smelly so don't get it on your hands! To combat this you can try dry nettle fertilizer that is made by doing the above but without water. The resulting liquid should be diluted so it looks like weak tea.

Fight aphids by doing the above but only soak for a few days before adding to a sprayer and applying to the aphid horde.

Nettles usually grow early in the year and a patch of them in an unused corner will attract some early pests and, with them, predatory insects. Chop down the nettles (for use as above) and the predatory insects will hopefully stick around your garden chomping on other pests.

Nettle roots are deep growing and can help break up hard soil so great for no-dig gardeners.

The stalks of mature nettles can be used for cordage.

There are many natural remedies associated with nettles, too many to list here. Try The Uni of Maryland for some details.

Companions
Nettles make great companions for currants: allow them to grow amongst currants or plant currants in old nettle beds. They will benefit from the nettle's ability to drag up nutrients and increases the currant's immunity to disease.

Soil
Nettles don't seem that fussy and will be prolific if left unchecked.

Location
Anywhere but probably in a shady corner where not much grows.

Planting
If you fancy some nettles in your garden then chances are the local nursery is not going to stock seed. So, find some in the wild and dig up a section or a young nettle to transplant. They'll self seed but be warned that they will grow quite tall!

Sources & Information
Medicinal uses from Maryland Uni'
Much of the information is from Tips from the Old Gardeners, by Duncan Crosbie
If the words genus or species makes you moist then Wiki has an article
Lucy for info on dry and wet nettle fertilizer.

Growing Dome

2009-07-27T23:44:00.000-07:00

Via Treehugger a series of photos documenting a guy building a Geodesic Dome Solar Greenhouse. It looks absolutely brilliant and he reports growing fruit and veg 1 to 2 months earlier than usual.

Linky

I'll have 3 please!

Garlic - Allium Sativum

2009-07-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

One of the oldest medicinal remedies in the World and a lovely hardy annual to put in the ground when summer veggies have given up.

Species
Two main types: hard-necked (Ophios) and soft-necked (Sativum).

Dimensions
Grow 6" apart (.15m) with rows the same distance apart. If you're growing particularly big ones then increase this.

Timings
Garlic should be planted from around October to December time.
Ready about June to August (you'll know as the tips turn yellow) however wet summers can cause problems, read more here.
Start feeding regularly in spring.

Soil
Overly moist soil will rot garlic so make sure the ground is free draining - mix in sand if your soil is heavy.
Deep, moderately fertile soil is good.

Location
Full sun is good.

Planting
Garlic from the supermarket will grow but for the best crop go for a locally sourced one that will be more adapted to your climate.
Break the garlic up into cloves and plant two inches deep.
Garlic can be stored for a good while if kept cool and dry so no need for staggered planting times.
Garlic can also be grown in pots, read more here.

Companions
Interplanted with aphid prone plants is a good idea as they don't seem to like garlic (mini vampires?)

Care
A protective mulch will help protect growing bulbs.
March onwards make sure to feed the garlic as this is when they start growing a lot.
When most plant tips are yellow, pull them up and brush off soil. Hang them somewhere to dry thoroughly then transfer to storage. Remember to keep a couple of the best cloves for next year!

Pests and Problems
Growing using your own garlic raises the chance of disease, read more.
Some trouble shooting tips here.

Varieties
Purple Glazer - looks good, sweet warm taste. Good raw or roasted.
Silverskin - the supermarket regular. Good storing variety.
Asiatic - More delicate in flavour.

Sources & Information
Video of garlic planting
Good article from GardenAction.com
Garlic for medicine article
Great photo from freedigitalphotos.net

Kale - Brassica oleracea

2009-07-07T11:32:00.000-07:00

Kale is a highly nutritious, hardy plant that tolerates moderate heat and all but the coldest winters - when touched with frost the edible leaves become sweeter.

Spring Kale

Dimensions
Depending upon variety kales can grow to about 12 to 36 inches(30-90cm) wide, 12-24 inches(30-60cm) high.

Soil
Moderately fertile, free draining soil.

Planting
Kales can be quite big so 1 or 2 is good unless you have a large family. They can be grown in pots to save space in beds. Kale can be started indoors, away from frost, if you fancy an early crop, or straight into soil half an inch deep.

Location
Full sun is best but partial shade is also good.

Companions
Kale is no fan of very hot weather - maybe grow a tall plant around it to give shade e.g. sweet corn.

Care
A mulch will lessen the chance of the soil drying out and keep the soil warmer over winter - straw is a popular winter mulch.

Pests and Problems
Kale is a member of the cole crops which should never be planted in the same place as another cole crop for a season or two (crop rotation should be employed). Soil around the kale can be mixed back in the compost heap to rejuvinate it.
A number of problems can occur with kale as other brassicas, here's a list.

Eating
When the plant is of a moderate size it can be eaten as a cut and come again crop. Young leaves can be eaten raw, older leaves can be cooked but too old they wont be so nice.
After spring kale will start to send up flowering shoots that can be eaten like broccoli. The flower is also edible.
A good source of calcium and iron.

Timings
Kale can be planted from spring, after the last frosts, to July - can be started indoors.

Varieties
White Russian is good as a cold weather salad crop.
Winterbar - bluegreen frily leaves.
Redbar - purple frily leaves.

Sources & Information
Brassica pests and problems
US based overview
Great overview from growingtaste.com
Verrry long article courtesy of MotherEarthNews

Pictures
Spring kale - harvestwizard.com
Kale bed - eHow.com

Gooseberry - Ribes grossularia

2009-07-07T06:51:00.000-07:00

Species
European(R. grossularia) is better tasting than the American variety (R. hirtellum) and will grow in the US so I'll concentrate on this species.

Type
Hardy, self-fertile, deciduous shrub

Dimensions
Will grow about 3'(.9m) high and 6'(1.8m) wide although easily pruned to a smaller size. Commonly pruned so growth stands on a 6 inch trunk. Also can be grown as a cordon - cordons should be planted 14"(.35m) appart and will grow 6' high(1.8m).

Soil
Reasonably fertile, well drained but not dry.

Location
Sunny is good for more cooler climates. Morning sun and shade, like north facing walls, in warmer areas e.g. California.

Planting
Dig lots of compost into site and transplant an already growing bush.

Feeding
Needs high potassium and moderate nitrogen. Mulch a couple of inches thick around the base.

Companions
Dwarf comfrey may be good for feeding.
Different varieties of gooseberry to extend growing season.

Care
Mulch well to keep roots moist and protected from the sun. Prune old, woody growth to within 1 inch of their base. Side shoots on left over growth should be cut to 5 leaves length to open up the plant.

Pests and Problems
Mildew can be caused by too much nitrogen.
Spider mites, boarers - stems will wilt and die.

Timings
Plant October to February - October being best as soil is still warm.
Main growth in spring.
Prune about February to March.
Fruits July and August. Pick some May to June, for cooking only, to encourage other fruit to grow larger.
May take up to 2 years to fruit.

Recommended Varieties
Leveller - good taste.
Whinhams - shade hardy small plant with red fruit.
Invicta - smaller variety, lots of fruit.
Hinnomaki Red - fruit is red when ripe.
Pax - resistant to mildew and almost thornless.

Sources & Information
Good overview from BBC
Gardenaction's overview
CRFG's very detailed overview

Squash - Cucurbita genus

2009-06-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

There are two main types of squash: winter and summer. Summer varieties have soft skin that can be eaten, the most notable being the zucchini or courgette. Winter varieties are tougher and store very well.

Planting
Squash needs a good warm summer to grow well and should be planted well after the last frosts. Seeds can be started somewhere warm but if soil outdoors is warm enough they'll do fine in situ'. There is a recommended method of creating 'squash hills', more info here.
Squash can be trained vertically to save space. Stems will need to be tied and fruit supported with fruit nets. This is a good idea as squash can spread up to 4m when very healthy!

Uses
Butternut squash is great for soup. Also good roasted.
The flowers and young shoots of some varieties are also edible.

Companions
Squash is part of the three sisters planting method. It effectively covers the ground and protects it from the sun and erosion so any tall plants may benefit.

Care and propagation
Squash are hungry and thirsty plants so a good mulch will be useful. It'll be also good to employ some efficient watering. I've started a basic guide to watering that needs some work. Some vines can be pruned to increase fruit growth.

Pests and Problems
If you're going to save seeds for planting you have to be sure not to cross pollinate with other squash varieties as fruit may not grow as expected.
Squash and other members of the Cucurbita genus are susceptible to different problems but different plants can be tried until one is found to be successful in your plot.

General links
Wiki has a pretty good article with a good list of the different varieties.

Growing Links
Great growing tips for people that don't have the sunniest weather, here.

Picture
Squash picture from here

Rose - Rosa

2009-06-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

"Sacrilege!", I hear you cry. The rose's beauty is such that whole gardens are dedicated to them and they just happen to be very edible. As with all edible flowers, be sure of its identity and that it's not had chemicals used in its growth.

Uses
Not only are they an edible decoration for salads but I've also seen petals used in jellys for a pleasant effect. Also found is a recipe for rose petal sauce.

Planting
There are so many different roses each being able to tolerate different levels of sun and soil.
Depending on the type of rose: planted in a row can make a great feature and some can be used as hedges; cover for walls; main use I've seen is focal points.

Companions
There are companions that can deter pests, increase scent and help add nutrition to the soil. This is a good article with lots of detail. On the flip side roses could be used as a distraction from your other plants so that you're only treating the roses not your treasured veggies.

Care
Pruning is essential for roses to encourage new, vigorous growth. Dead heading encourages new flowers but maybe not let the flowers die and eat them instead!
Pruning will depend on the type of rose: BBC have a good, general article.
A good rich mulch - like manure - over winter will give roses a good start in spring. During the rest of the year green mulches that provide nutrients would be great.

Pests and Problems
Aphids are always a problem. A weak solution of water and natural soap is good. There is also the idea of letting the pests have their way and in time nature will balance itself out - in the case of aphids probably predatory insects that can be encouraged.
There are disease resistant varieties available if you have such problems.

Planting Links
Companion plants for roses article

Care Links
General pruning article from the BBC
Alternative pruning article with plenty of detail

Pictures
Rose Arch from here

Intensive growing affecting food nutrition

2009-06-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

Nutitional values of intensively grown crops is on the decline - Motherearthnews reports.

Link to story: http://www.motherearthnews.com/Sustainable-Farming/Nutrient-Decline-Industrial-Farming.aspx

When something is selectively grown for quantity, not quality, it is hardly surprising that the nutritional value is going to decrease. I've always felt soil is so important when growing a plant and if this is not rich enough in nutrients and minerals then the food is hardly going to be so. Oil based fertilisers provide nutrition of course but is just not complex enough: they only provide what is needed for a high yield of the crop.

I'm sure the same is of intensively reared animals.

Yet another reason to have a go at growing your own!

Mint - Mentha

2009-06-21T01:02:00.000-07:00

This mint post is inspired by memories of a visit to a local Moroccan restaurant where the Moroccan mint tea blew me away. The taste and smell of fresh mint is so invigorating and refreshing. Common types of mint are crinkle-leafed spearmint, spearmint, peppermint, and applemint.

(Picture from home to be added soon)

Planting
It should not given free reign as mint will spread quickly. Keep it in a pot or if in the ground then roots should be restricted. This can be done with a plant pot, drainage tube, of other such container - just make sure there is plenty of drainage.
Moist, nutrient rich, free draining soil is important.
A site that is not exposed to the full mid-day sun is important.

Companions
Mint can be planted with fruit to deter pests with its strong scent.

Care and Propagation
Mint take the mint as and when you need it and if you keep removing the flowers it will keep producing leaves up until Autumn. Take from the top but don't remove all leaves.
The most common method of propagation is division of the root ball. Plants can also be grown from cuttings - here's an article how from GW.
A mulch will conserve water and certain types will help feed the plant.

Pests and Problems
Pennyroyal mint should be avoided, even though the Romans used extensively in cooking it can be dangerous if a lot is consumed. Any distilled pennyroyal like essential oil is very dangerous. As always do your research and positively ID your edibles!
Rust can occur.

Uses
The flowers are also edible and could be used as a garnish for mint tea for a pleasing effect.
Pennyroyal mint can be used to deter fleas in animals and an insect repellent, source. A few leaves of peppermint rubbed over the face will give a cool feeling and repel many pesky insects.
Mint in a planter on a window sill will help deter flys from paying a visit.

Care and Propagation links
Wiki has a good overview of propagation
Detailed article on taking cuttings

General links
The mint family is a large one that includes thyme and marjoram, here's an article about the family.
Gardenaction has a good article, if you can see through the adverts.
Handy ideas from Tips from the Old Gardeners, by Duncan Crosbie.

Blueberries

2009-06-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

Blueberries are the prime dark blue super fruit with lots of benefits to health and wellbeing.

Planting
Although plants will fruit by themselves blueberries planted with a different variety of blueberry will do best. They should be planted out after the last frost.
Blueberries tolerate part-shade and do well in full sun.

Soil
Acid based soil that is moist, free draining and fertile is great. A mulch of coffee grounds provide acid as do chipped pine wood and pine needles. Know of any more?

Adjusting the soils pH will take time so do this well in advance, your aiming for about 4 to 5.5 pH.

Companions
Cranberries are similar to blueberries in their acid loving habit. They can be planted together in the same pot with cranberries gathering round the bottom of the taller blueberry bush.

Care
Pruning should be carried out when the blueberry is dormant: at the end of the year, after fruiting, is good. More detail in growing links.

Pests and Problems
If you have lime heavy water - you get limescale in your kettle is a good indicator of this - don't water acid loving plants with it. Rainwater is a great option.
Pruning too hard can kill off any hopes for the next years fruiting as this is based on the previous year's growth.

General Information
Intro to Blueberries overview.
Good article with overview of many blueberry varieties.
Health Benefits of Blueberries, comprehensive article.

Growing
RHS overview of blueberry growing.
A guide to looking after blueberries.
Great article on pruning with plenty of detail.

Extensive article on growing (detail about 2 variety growing)

Problems
Good forum article with informative posts.
Forum posts on blueberries and problems they may have.

Images
Blueberry, Blueberry2

Creative Vegetable Gardening Book

2009-05-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

Creative Vegetable Gardening by Joy Larkom, 2008, is a book that proves vegetable gardening can be beautiful.

From back to front the book is full of excellent photos that accentuate the text brilliantly. The textual content is aimed at beginner gardeners and vegetable gardeners that want to design a garden that can look great as well as provide food. I think any gardener will enjoy this book and learn from the extensive knowledge held by the author e.g. I have read through the book once and am now making notes on companion plants, interesting techniques, design features, and interesting or new plants I´ve not come accross yet, the latter is a formidible list and my notes span many pages!

Joy´s knowledge of little used plants is impressive and she has played an active role in introducing new plants to the edible garden for some time. She has been awarded a number of notable accolades for her work and while reading this book you realise the passion that fuels her work.

I understand that many people that follow this blog are keen to start their own gardens and I believe that you would find this book a great read and inspiration as I have.

Notes & Info

This is a big book (to fit all the pictures).

There is, as yet, no look inside available for the new version. Here´s a link to the 2004 version.

This is the version I am reviewing, link.

I link to amazon but there are many more smaller suppliers out there ;)

Where in the World

2009-05-02T03:04:00.000-07:00

I'm avoiding recession worries by travelling some more! I'm currently in Argentina, about to embark on a few months travel around South America.

This will mean that the posts will be few during this time but there's lots of old posts that may be interesting.

So, with me being away, I am open to other people writing posts about their favourite plants of the edible/ useful variety. You don't have to use the same format as me, just do what you think looks nice. Just leave a comment or contact me.

Thanks,

Zac

Alpine Strawberry - Fragaria Vesca

2009-04-19T19:00:00.000-07:00

A small, hardy, ground covering shrub the fruit is said to have a far better taste than its common cultivated sibling. Additionally it's medicinal uses are many, including a natural whitener for teeth!

Planting
The Alpine Strawberry prefers a moist, free draining, acid soil.
It is good as a border as it does not send out suckers like similar varieties.
A great suggestion from the BBC site that pairs it up with a Fleabane in a pot to create an attractive addition to the garden, here's the link.

Companions
As a ground cover plant it will suppress weeds. maybe used at the base of a blueberry plant as it likes the same soil, as with the cranberry.

Care
This hardy little plant is said to be able to survive the winter when protected and will last a few seasons before becoming straggly and will need to be replaced.

Pests and Problems
Animals, unsurprisingly, love the fruit and it will need to be protected.

Sources & Information
Superb Herbs site has a good little article that is well worth a read for ideas on edible uses.
As always the PFAF site has an exhaustive article with some great information about medicinal uses.
Photo courtesy of flickr

An Experiment in Backyard Gardening - Video

2009-04-19T16:18:00.001-07:00

Here's a video, American based, but applicable to edible gardening anywhere in the world.
Features Scott McGuire, a landscaper with a passion for back yard gardening.

Link to video

Notes on Content
Key points:

Saving seeds.
Grow your own crops to be more in tune with nature, not just for saving money and producing your own food.
Experimentation with plants - like grains.

Growing points:

The idea of letting nature take her share of the crop and balancing pests the natural way.
Growing herbs for medicine.
Growing squashes upwards instead of leaving them on the ground.
Growing tomatoes alongside squash.
Growing food for chickens like greens (comfrey, kale...) and grains like millet.
Growing clover under trees to give nitrogen and saving the clover seeds to plant out when needed

Edible points:

Use of sprouting seeds for sustenance and using sunflower seeds for this as well.

Common Daylily - hemerocallis fulva

2009-04-12T23:26:00.000-07:00

The Common Daylily is not only one of the most beautiful plants but also highly nutritious. There are a number of dwarf varieties that would be suitable for containers but research should be carried out to inform edibility.

Edible uses
All parts of the Common Daylily are edible and feature in many chinese recipes. Leaves when they are young. Young shoots when they are cooked. Flowers are edible raw or cooked with the petals being crunchy when raw and the nectar giving some sweetness. Tubers are also edible raw or cooked.[1] There are also numerous medicinal uses.
Examples & ideas:
Ice cream served in the blossoms; buds used in salads and stir frys; the roots are delicious washed and boiled - all from gardening-guy.com

Planting
The Common Daylily will grow in a clump to about 1m by 1m in a moist to semi-dry soil in full sun to dappled shade - some species do not like full sun as their petals get scorched.
I found an article that says the common daylily can be grown in shade.

Companions
None known as yet.

Care
High potash fertiliser in spring and a compost mulch will encourage strong growth.
After some time the plant may become overcrowded and fewer flowers will be produced. This can be
remedied by splitting the plant and re-planting the divisions into fertilised soil to promote new growth.[2]

Pests and Problems
Any flower buds that become oversized and fail to open may be suffering from the hemerocallis gall midge.[2]
Daylily can be a pest if allowed a free rein in the garden and is seen as a pest in some countries.[3]

Sources & Information
[1]PFAF's detailed article
[2]BBC's detailed overview, including growing
[3]Wiki article
Great, practical information I'd recommend reading from the growing-guy.com site.
Pic 1 from here, pic 2 from blooms4fr, pic 3 from viette.com.

Nepalese Raspberry - Rubus nepalensis

2009-04-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

As the name suggests this is a hardy plant that can tolerate low temperatures. The edible fruits are small and a little sour.[1]

Planting
Unlike the more common raspberries this is a ground cover evergreen plant that does not exceed 20cms from the ground and will spread about 1m in diameter.
Moist well drained soil, it won't tolerate drought conditions. Although it will grow in shade it will produce more fruit in sun/ dappled shade[2].
As a green mulch it will suppress weeds nicely and protect the soil from erosion and the sun.

Companions
Plants will benefit from the protection a ground cover plant offers although it may compete for nutrients and water.

Care
Plants can be divided at most times during the year.

Pests and Problems
Susceptible to honey fungus.
Not many sources of information on this plant.

Sources & Information
[1]PFAF seems the sole source of information for this plant!
[2]kevockgarden.co.uk
Photo (the only one I could find) courtesy of ForestFarm.com

Musk Mallow - Malva moschata

2009-04-08T01:40:00.000-07:00

All species of Malva have edible flowers and leaves. The leaves have been reported to be superior in taste to lettuce as a bulk salad ingredient[1]. It'll grow to about 2 to 6 feet tall. The Malva moschata alba being the white flower variety.

Planting
Musk mallow prefers well-drained fertile soil in a moderate sun to sunny position in beds or containers[2]. The seeds will persevere in the soil for some time[4].

Companions
None known, yet.

Care
It's a pretty hardy plant and will tolerate very low temperatures during its dormant winter state. After a while the centre of the plant will become woody and decay[3].
Once the growing season is over in autumn cut the plant back to ground level. You can then divide the plant if you fancy.
Harvesting the leaves can be done quite harshly to established plants, putting off the flowering. Once the plant has its way and starts flowering you can harvest the flowers instead[1].

Pests and Problems
Relatively pest free although can get rust fungus on the leaves.

Sources & Information
[1]As always PFAF are the leading light of information (if I ever make any money I'll make a donation).
[2]An overview of Musk Mallow from thriftyfun.com
[3]gardencentre.org
[4]Wildseed.co.uk, also the source for the pink picture

Strawberry Tree - Arbutus unedo

2009-04-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

Not quite strawberries on a tree but a beautiful tree that will bear fruit late autumn that is good raw but also very good for preserves to help you get through the winter months.

Uses
The fruit is good when ripe and is meant to be guava like in taste, this can be made into jam and preserves[2]. There is also a number of alcoholic drinks made from the fruit like Portugese modrono or brandymel. The japanese also soak the fruit in sake to add flavour.

Soil
The strawberry tree is quite tolerant of nearly all soils as long as they are not waterlogged. Some verieties do prefer acid soil so best to research the variety you want.

Location
The 'Rubra' cultivar is a slow growing variety that bears plenty of fruit and is suitable for a garden. It can reach 4 metres tall if left unattended.
The 'Elfin King' cultivar is a very small version - about 1 metre tall - that bears a good amount of fruit and can be container grown[2].
It is recommended that the tree varieties are planted next to paths so the beauty and smell can be appreciated[1].

Companions
For visual appeal hellebores can be underplanted or spring bulbs added[1]. Not yet found any information on edible or growth aiding companions.

Care
Due to the fruit taking so long to mature and it flowering at the same time it would be difficult to prune without affecting fruit production. Apparently early summer is good for pruning[1].

Pests and Problems
The fruit once ripe will drop from the tree. Once off the tree use soon as it will ferment quickly so can be dangerous to eat for humans and animals like dogs.

Sources & Information
Here's a good link for making fruit liquor! The madrono is down a fair bit near the middle and there are a large number of other alcoholic fruit drinks listed here.

[1]The Telegraph has a great article that is worth a read.

[2]As ever the invaluable PFAF site has a detailed study and overview.

Elaeagnus

2009-04-05T19:44:00.000-07:00

A rarely known perennial shrub that will tolerate shade, fix nitrogen, and produce a tasty fruit early spring time.
The most recommended variety is Elaeagnus x ebbingei[1], pictured.

Uses
Edible fruit and seed although the seed has a very fiberous husk[1].
It fruits well in poor soil and fixes nitrogen so a perfect plant for regenerating soil.

Soil
According to the PFAF site Elaeagnus best fruits when soil is of poor quality. The reason being if the soil is good the plant puts energy into shoot growth.

Location
This plant will tolerate full shade so a great one to plant under a tree or against a north facing wall. It will grow 5m by 5m if left alone but is easily kept in check with pruning. Great as a hedge.

Companions
Fruit trees that like nitrogen rich soil will especially benefit from this shrub.
Elaeagnus pungens is cited as a good polinator for Elaeagnus ebbingei and can produce its own fruits

Care
Pruning is carried out after the fruits have been harvested in spring, removing straggly, intrusive or dead branches. Due to possibility that the plant fruits best in poor soil no feed is needed. The plant is also hardy to drought

Pests and Problems
A lack of information other than the PFAF site is a problem. When you grow this shrub you have to do your research and share any findings concerning best growing practices with the good people at PFAF.

Sources & Information
[1]Plants for a future database has an excellent overview and detailed article.
Main picture from mailordertrees site, one of only a few pictures similar to the PFAF one.

No Dig Gardening

2009-04-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

A method of soil care that depends on nature to aerate the soil and nutrition is added to the soil surface through mulches. No dig mimics a natural forest's cycle of life where a mulch of leaves and dead plant material covers the ground. This mulch layer insulates the soil against heat and cold which allows worms to come closer to the surface thus breaking up and aerating the soil.

Starting a no dig garden
The first thing to do is make sure your soil is suitable for planting through a number of tests and methods for amending deficiencies. Here's a link to a great article courtesy of howstuffworks.com.

The no dig garden is no place for the gardener's feet as this will compact the soil so paths should be planned that allow the gardener to reach into the bed from the sides.

Choice of mulch
Here's my article on mulches.
Of the mulches you'll be looking to use organic matter that will add nutrients to the soil. The material you use will be dictated by where you live, your soil type, and your budget. Having enough organic matter can be quite difficult although straw is a cheap way to cover a large surface - if a little messy.

Compost crops are also good for no dig gardening. Instead of digging over the green mulch it is cut and covered with a surface mulch so it doesn't regrow and the remains rot.

Planting
Can be carried out before mulching or after by just pulling back the mulch or cutting a hole in it if it is a sheet type.

Maintenance
As the mulch rots down it will need to be topped up.
You'll find there is less time hunting weeds but some mulches can be havens for pests like slugs.
Due no dig method's dependence on worms it's important to not use any fertilisers or pesticides that may harm them.

No dig gardening is an integral part of raised bed gardening. Raised beds are sized so access to every part is available from the sides so there is no need to step on the soil.

Sources & Information
Treehugger has a good overview well worth a read
Great article from allotment.org
Wiki has a good article with some background info
MotherEarthNews has a detailed overview of growing rich soil.
Again, MotherEarthNews has an excellent article on no dig gardening.

Marigolds

2009-03-30T16:28:00.001-07:00

Marigolds are an ideal companion plant for the whole garden, look great, and some are even edible.

Soil
Marigolds are not fussy about the soil they grow in as long as it is moist. They can tolerate nutrient deficient soil but grow best when there is a decent level of potash.

Location
The plant will tolerate dappled shade and sunny areas. I read somewhere that the best place to plant marigolds is everywhere...

Companions
The marigold is regarded as an excellent companion plant for many plants. It attracts beneficial insects that will prey upon pests and also repel pests like aphids, beetles and nematodes.

Care
Dead heading (removing the old flowers) will increase the amount of flowers produced and flowering time.
They not frost hardy so should be removed towards the end of November when seeds will have matured. Some species are self seeding and can be left to their own devices.

Edible Uses
Different marigold species have differing levels of edibility. The pot marigold has palatable leaves and flowers - according to PFAF, a link well worth reading to see how many different uses a marigold has! As always research should be carried out to the type of plant you're growing e.g. the corn marigold has toxins in its leaves!

Pests and Problems
Slugs love marigolds and will reduce them to stems in no time!
There are many different cultivars of varieties of marigolds. A decent amount of research should be carried out to find those that most benefit the garden aesthetically and practically.

Sources & Information
[1]Companion plant listing
BBC Gardening marigold varieties
PFAF's list of marigold varieties
Overview of marigolds and growing them from plantexpert.com
Great article about marigold uses, including remedial. Also the source for the first picture.
FredrikMedia, for the other great photos.

The perfect compost bin

2009-03-22T23:05:00.001-07:00

Compost bins come in many shapes and sizes with associated pros and cons. As I come across the various types on-line I will document them in this article.

Stacking wooden compost bin
First up is a wooden DIY compost bin that claims to be the perfect compost bin. The University of California related compost bin looks extremely simple to make and very doable for the beginner DIYer.

Note they use untreated pine. Treatments for wood may leak toxins into the compost then into the food system. There is also the idea that if it rots then this is just the natural cycle of the wood returning to the soil. As the system is so easy to make you would just make another section.

The use of screws is a good idea as well as they're reusable.

Included is a compost recipe that claims to produce compost in about 6 weeks.

Recycled Pallet Compost Bin
I've seen this example of bin a few times now and is popular at the moment with the recycle reuse ideal. Here's a DIY guide from GW.
Pros
The simplicity of this system is the main benefit, the slats in the pallet are perfect for aeration, the average pallet is the perfect dimensions for a bin, and it's cheap.
Cons
There may be a problem with the heap loosing water: moisture content is meant to be high - about 60% - but with too many slats in the sides airflow will dry it out (the gaps could be filled of course).
It's not the most aesthetically pleasing bin - this is a blog about beautiful, edible gardens after all... :)

Sources and Info
General compost bin building pdf
Wood stacking compost bin picture
Pallet compost bin courtesy of Ventnor Permaculture

Three Sisters - Corn, Beans, Squash

2009-03-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

Corn, beans, and squash grown together were known as the three sisters by native American Indians.

Corn
The tall growing corn produces a large amount of pollen that attracts many beneficial insects. In Havana, Cuba the urban farmers grow corn at the periphery of the garden to attract aphids away from their main crops - read more here, about halfway down.

Beans
Beans take nitrogen from the air and transfer it to the soil so feeding the corn and the squash. The beans will grow up the corn as they reach for the sky.

Squash
The squash's broad leaves cover the ground providing shade for the soil helping to retain water. There are many types of squash of which I'll cover soon in an article!

Technique
Here's a simple overview of how to grow the three sisters plants.

This is an American technique but should be successful in most of Europe. Here's a link to a forum discussion highlighting some problems and a great source of info'.

Sources & Information
Detailed article on 3 sisters growing
I'll cover the 3 plants in their own articles soon!
Companion plant information
Squash picture from Victorian Nursery Site
Corn Picture from the Gardening Association
Bean - french type - picture from Amar seeds

Mulch

2009-03-22T22:21:00.000-07:00

Mulch is a layer that lies on top of the soil's surface. It's a great way to feed plants, help retain moisture, insulates against cold and heat, suppress weeds, and reduce erosion.

Types
Processed materials like rubber, geotextiles, paper, mulch mats, or even hessian.

Stone - from a sensible source - no nutritional value but great for keeping weeds down and maintaining temperature, also decorative stone can be used. From experience algae will stain stone that is in shade. Tt is also a pain to pick dirt and plant matter from a stone mulch.

Wood - again, from a sensible source - wood materials should not be treated with chemicals. Also, wood is nitrogen deficient and can deplete soil nitrogen when breaking down so

Seaweed freshly washed up that hasn't accumulated salt from sea-spray, rinse it as well - Good blog article and comments.

Manure and compost are great for feeding the soil although make sure the mulch doesn't touch plants and trees as it may burn them or cause unnatural growth. As a general rule a gap of an inch or two around stems and trunks.

Straw can be messy but will break down providing nutrients. Good example of straw use on Gardeners' World site.

Coffee grounds can be used as a mulch for acid loving plants, here's a link with more information about it's use. When coffee is composted the acidity is neutralised so it can be used on normal ph crops.

There is a method of mulching that involves a layer of straw and organic material is added underneath this. Such a method skips the compost heap and goes straight to the soil - more detail here.

Compost Crops
Also called green manure, cover crops are a type of living mulch. Here's an article.

Usage
If using an auto watering system the network of pipes can be under the mulch layer ensuring water goes straight to the plant and minimizing water loss.

Sources & Information
Beginners guide to mulching from Biodelice
Detailed article about mulches from Lowes
[1]Strawberry and straw mulch - GW

Raspberries

2009-03-22T01:14:00.000-07:00

A hardy perennial plant that will tolerate a bit of shade and will produce bountiful crops of fruit - with a little care and attention.
There are summer and autumn fruiting varieties of raspberry. Summer fruiting varieties produce fruit on last years growth, autumn does so on the same year's growth - that starts in Spring. It's worth noting most varieties won't bear fruit until the 2nd year[1].

Growing
Raspberries can take up a fair amount of space if grown in rows. If in a smaller garden then a Victorian method can be used where the fruit is trained to a central pole creating a column of raspberries[1], not found an example image of this yet.
Raspberries can be invasive and it may be worth restricting roots. A good way is to use a raised bed, here is a good example from Backyard Gardening blog.
A mulch will be good for keeping roots cool as well as all the other mulching benefits.

Pruning
Prune out old canes when the fruit has been picked being careful not to harm any new growth.
Great video on how to prune your raspberry bush.
An article with a little more detail on training the canes against wire from the Greenfingers site.

Sources & Info
Growing overview from GardenAction site
Overview of a couple of varieties and growing from GW
Great recipe from the chocolate trading co
[1] p178, Sufficient by Tom Petherick.
GW Growing Raspberries overview

Paths

2009-03-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

Paths not only lead the garden visitor on a journey through the garden but also allow access to the plants for maintenance and harvesting.

Bricks
Brick is a commonly used material for paths and is hard wearing and weather resistant. A path can be an extension of the house by using bricks of the same style, a bit like colour coordinating clothes. Using second hand bricks would be a great way to recycling those are no longer useful for building.
Not an easy job but doable for a keen DIYer.

Wood Paths
Most obvious use is for bridges and wood chip ground cover. The zig zag path shown is an interesting way of making a route more interesting and slowing down the user. Monty from GW shows how to build a similar path.
They can be slippery so anti-slip cover should be added. From experience if wood is in a shady area it may get algae growing on it.

Stepping Stones
Similar to the above in slowing down travel through the garden when they are placed far enough apart or in an odd pattern. They can also be different heights so no need to spend time levelling the ground!

Gravel Paths
Easy to lay with minimal preparation needed, just to suppress weeds. I found it a bit of a pain keeping general garden debris out of the gravel path.

Sources & Information
Wood zig zag path picture - VisitingPlaces blog
SteppingStones picture - GharExpert
Gravel picture - http://www.apartmenttherapy.com

General Pictures

Chillies

2009-03-15T02:30:00.000-07:00

Chillies are a colourful and tasty addition to any garden and can be dried for later use.

Planting
An attractive hanging basket can be made with Apache and Prairie Fire chilli varieties (both dwarf cultivars suited to hanging baskets) with a non edible parrot's beak plant interspersed between the chillies for added flare[1].

Growing
Chillies are similar to aubergines (eggplant) and sweet peppers(capsicums) in growing, here's a very detailed BBC guide to growing them all.
Chillies are started in a warm environment and then planted out. They're not frost hardy so don't leave out over winter and don't plant them out when frost may still occur.

Storing
Chillies can be dried for later use and make a very attractive, practical addition to the kitchen. A guide to drying. They can also be pickled.

Sources & Info
Gardeners' World has a video on growing chillies
[1] P104 Crops in Pots by Bob Purnell
Chilli oil is worth trying too, courtesy of About.com

Melon Salad with Mint and Roses

2009-03-12T03:04:00.000-07:00

I don't normally post recipes but this one made my mouth water like Niagara Falls.

Ingredients
A few different types of melon - rough amount of 3 cups would do.
2 tablespoons or a small handful of fresh mint
4 tablespoons of orange juice
1 tsp honey
Small handful of rose petals

Method
Cut melons into cubes or use a melon baller. Dress with chopped mint, orange juice and honey. Sprinkle rose petals over the top.

Note
Don't use roses that you are not 100% sure have not been treated with chemicals!

Source
From the Urban Garden Casual site.

Cold Frames, Cloches, and Hotbeds

2009-03-12T01:49:00.000-07:00

Cold frames are mini greenhouses that are about 1 to 2 feet tall and various lengths and widths.
A great place for seedlings to start and getting veggies started early or grown late into autumn that normally wouldn't survive.
Cold frames in an edible garden, no matter what size, would be a great benefit and an alternative greenhouse for those that can't fit a traditional one.
A clotch (French for bell) is very similar to a cold frame but sits on top of the soil and is a more temporary structure usually made entirely of glass, although there are plastic and fabric versions...

A hotbed is a cold frame with a source of heat to keep the temperature at a decent level. Heat can be from electric elements, hot water pipes and composting material.

Construction
Insulation against heat and cold is a must as is ventilation to control temperature.
Todo:
find out if there is an automatic way of doing this.
add links to DIY projects

Usage
It would be possible to add rotting material to the lower section and put a layer of seeding compost in the top as depicted in a Uni' of Missouri article - more info is needed on practical usage of compost as a heating source. GaianLife is a key resource for all things heating with compost.
Need to find out the temperature benefits and how early it is possible to start planting veggies.

Sources & Info
An overview of cold frames and some varieties from Two Wests and Elliot
Good detail of cold frames and hotbeds from the Uni' of Missouri
Interesting idea (if costly) utilising vertical space from Gabriel Ash

Chickens

2009-03-09T19:09:00.001-07:00

Chickens are very entertaining little creatures that have many benefits to the garden as well as provide you with the freshest eggs that will be the best tasting you've ever had.

Feeding
Chickens will eat most things - a good article on different chicken feeds. Kitchen scraps will be efficiently converted into eggs and manure.
To increase egg yields a high protein feed will be needed, if they don't get it from free-ranging that is. There are plenty of organic feeds available - just Google it.
Chicken mash is great for supplementing the diet especially in winter.
The chickens I looked after were given warm water and warm wet oatmix every morning on recommendation from their regular keepers, apparently it makes them happier.
If you have the space you can grow your own chicken food; they love greens like kale and comfrey (which are also very good for them). They also like any grains like millet.
Also, cider vinegar is said to help clear the chicken's gut, need more info on whether this is true.

Housing
A popular and trendy chicken coup is the Eglu (US - UK sites). These are great but a little costly for many folk so there are other alternatives like building your own or check your classifieds for chicken houses. Chickens can be confined within a chicken run, these can be enclosed or just a fence.

Reality Bites!
Having looked after 13 chickens for a month and a half I can say that chickens are not tidy critters. Chickens like to scratch around and will nibble on anything that looks tasty. They can't be trained to crap in one place so letting them loose on grass where kids like to roll around may be difficult.

Chickens in edible gardens
Chickens are great for clearing areas of pests and weeds. They will also fertilize the soil with a rich manure. They may be suitable to a crop rotation to help enrich soil.
Chickens can also be used as a heating source for greenhouses[1]

Pests & Problems
Foxes are the most obvious but badgers can be a problem as well so coups must be very strong. A man's urine is said to be a deterrent as is hair - I saw Hugh Fernley putting it in stockings and hanging it around the chickens' fence.
Rats are egg thieves and will happily set up home under a warm coup - don't use poison as it can find its way into the food chain.
Here's a link to a useful article on keeping chickens healthy.

Sources and Info
Where to get your chickens - Battery Hen Welfare Trust is a great place to find out!
One of the many reasons to keep your own chickens - Guardian article
[1]P208 of Sufficient by Tom Petherick.
The Keeping Chickens site is full of info as are the Poultry Pages

Nasturtium

2009-03-03T22:07:00.000-08:00

A beautiful climbing plant that has edible flowers, leaves, seeds and tubers.
It can also be trained along the ground.

Uses
This is a peppery tasting plant with high levels of vitamin C in the leaves and flowers. Leaves are available throughout summer. The flowers have a peppery, watercress flavour and lighten a salad. Seed pods are very peppery with the mature seeds making a substitute for pepper when ground down!
Green seed pods can be pickled and are a substitute for capers.
Nasturtium is also good as a trap crop for aphids to protect your more prized crops.

Environment
Is not frost hardy so if a small variety is used it can be moved indoors. Otherwise it will die off in autumn although it can self seed. Some varieties have hardy root systems that may survive.
Nasturtiums like quite lean soil and don't need feeding during the growing season.

Sources & Info
PFAF has an exhaustive article

Apple

2009-03-03T00:54:00.001-08:00

If apples are to be grown in a garden then it would be nice to grow a rare variety - only the apples that have been the most successful at mass production are sold at stores.

The Millennium Orchard has an extensive list of apple species. The names alone are worth a look.

Uses
Anything you can do with fruit...
Article on picking and storing apples

Environment
Apples grown in containers need to be dwarf varieties.

Apples need shelter for bees and insects to be able to pollinate so windy hill tops and coastlines are maybe not so good.

Some apple varieties won't tolerate high heat - due to thin skin and lack of wax on it - so the kind of apple tree will be very dependant upon location. Local dealers may be wise to the best species of apple for a particular area.

Apples can be grown in a number of different ways that are detailed in the Trees in the garden post. Most fitting for gardens are small bushes or trees and cordons.

Companions
Nasturtiums will attract beneficial insects and can repel others.
Clematis makes a cordon of trees more attractive.
To attract predatory insects that will prey on pests a number of plants can be used including clover.
Non Stop Apple Blossom - a type of Begonia - looks great around the base of a container apple[1].
Maroon clematis and James Grieve apple on an arch look great[2].

Maintenance
For apples to produce healthy yields they need careful pruning. Pruning is different for trees or cordons of apples. Summer pruning should be carried out on trained trees to increase yield - a good guide.
Container apples will need careful feeding and watering - a drip feed irrigation system would be great. A mulch will supply nutrients and help water retention.

Pest Control
Coddling moths can be a problem. These can be stopped with a greaseband(apply to stake as well).
An overview of problems and solutions courtesy of Garden Organic charity (down the page a bit).
If pests are a serious problem there is a method of spraying trees with oil!

Sources and Links
GW's quick and dirty guide to planting a tree
From choosing a tree to picking fruit, the Gardenaction site's apple guide
[1]Crops in Pots, Hamlyn, P112.
Great video on pruning apple trees
[2]Creative Veg' Gardening by Joy Larkom

Juneberry or Serviceberry - Amalenchier Canadensis

2009-02-23T18:55:00.000-08:00

The Juneberry adds beauty and fruits to a garden: in Autumn the leaves turn yellow and red before falling. In spring the abundance of flowers make the tree look white adding beauty to a normally blank canvas. The fruit has a hint of apple and is good eating if you can get them before the birds do!

The 'Prince William' cultivar is a bush that can grow to about 2m and produces good fruit. The 'Ballerina' cultivar is a beautiful addition to the garden if you have the space to fit a potentially 5m tall tree.

Environment
Juneberry prefers soil that is moist and well drained and can grow in many different types including heavy clay. To reduce the risk of drying a mulch could be used around the roots.
Wooded areas with sun or dappled shade are good but best fruiting is in full sun.

Care
The fruit is a favourite of birds so it may need protecting even when fruit is still green.

Pruning
If it is being grown as a fruiting tree then a bush form will be most beneficial. After leaf fall in Autumn you can cut any stems larger than 1" at the base of the plant and trim others to the height you want.

Planting
Plants 2 years old or younger should be protected before planting out.

Uses
The fruit is great raw and can be dried and used like raisins.

Sources & Information
General Juneberry overview from PFAF.
Pruning detail was found here, near the bottom.
Juneberry is being grown successfully at RISC's roof garden

Clover

2009-02-18T19:43:00.000-08:00

Clover is a compost crop that will suppress weeds and attract beneficial insects to the garden.

There are a many different clovers with different strengths: production of nitrogen, hardiness, cold resistance, beauty.

Environment
Ground cover plant that needs an inoculant for root bacteria to grow and produce nitrogen.
Growing environment is dependant upon the type of clover - a number of different types can be found here.
Clover is reported to be not effective on sandy soils.

Clover examples
Berseem Clover produces a great amount of nitrogen but is not cold hardy[1] Oats have been shown to grow well as a companion plant.
White clover is the most common and vigorous growers. It is cold resistant and can be used to create lawns that are great for insects and bees.
Alsike is a hardy, winter resistant plant.
Red clover is considered to be the best for compost cropping.

Companions
Fruit trees - to attract beneficial insects to combat pests[2]

Sources and Info
[1] Berseem clover overview
[2] Clover as a companion plant
BBCGardener Red Clover

Sweet Violet

2009-02-17T20:32:00.000-08:00

A low growing carpet cover plant that is great for excluding weeds.

Uses
Leaves can be used in the same way as okra and in salads.
The flowers are very tasty and are produced from late winter to spring.

Environment
Grows naturally along the forest edge so partial shade is good.
Soil should be moist, cool, and well drained.

Planting
Seedlings should be planted in late autumn in a cold frame and pricked out to pots before planting outside.

Sources and Info'
Overview of sweet violet
BBCGardener

Cherry

2009-02-17T01:00:00.000-08:00

Not only great fruit but in Spring it is one of the most beautiful blossoming trees.

New developments in cherry growing are making it easier to grow them in the garden but from my research it is obvious that growing cherries requires knowledge and a deft pruning hand, but well worth it.

Environment
Cherries require a light, well drained soil and like sunny to partial shade areas. One article mentioned some cherries being able to withstand the shade of the north facing wall.

Planting
Different root stocks and types (cultivars) of cherries can be combined.
Have a look at the right of this page for a view of the different size root stocks for cherries.
Gisela 5 root stock is a popular garden variety that can be trained as a bush to maximise fruit yield, the RHS article is the place to be for information.
There are a number of different types of cherry to choose from e.g.
Morello produces abundant large fruits.
Merton Premier is also a big cropper with a different taste in soil.

Care
Pruning is quite an art if you go by the RHS method (read from "Keeping Trees Cropping"). This seems like an important part of successive high yields of cherries.
Birds are fans of the fruit so may need covering in netting while fruiting if you're keen to keep your crop.
Some cherry types may need to be covered in winter for protection.

Companions
I have read that it is a good idea to plant flowers near the cherry to attract ladybirds and lacewings to devour aphids. Need to search out flowers that do this and if any compost crops would do this to enhance nitrogen production.

Sources and Info
Overview of growing cherry trees from the fruit expert
Great article describing a new type of root stock for cherries.
Cherry Image from fruit expert
BBCGardener Cherry

Trees in the garden

2009-02-16T23:17:00.000-08:00

Fruit Tree Sizes
A major factor in placing trees in the garden is the size of the tree. If heavy pruning is required then the tree is the wrong size for the garden.
A guide to terms and their sizes
Dwarf bush 0.6m
Half standard 1.35m
Standard 2m

Growing Style
Free standing
Feathered - a tree that has a single stem with lateral branches all the way to the base.
Unfeathered - a tree with a single stem- the length dictated by tree size - topped with a head of branches.
Trained
Usually against a structure - wire, wall, frame, etc:
Fan - RHS detailed article
Espalier - lateral branches are grown from a single trunk called the maiden. Vertical growth is controlled so more growth goes to the lateral spurs (branches from the maiden.
Cordon - trees are planted at an angle of 45°, no more than 1m apart (depending on plant). Lateral shoots are stubby in length so fruit is held close to the trunk. Can be vertical.
Arch - two vertical cordons grown over a structure and meet at the top.

General pruning information
Pruning is a process that needs to be timed correctly for each tree and done in the right way for the way in which the tree is being grown.
Here is a pruning overview.

Sources and Info'
Thanks to Walcot Nursery's general fruit tree info, their fruit catalogue is a great resource of info as well.
RHS has a good article with bits of useful info.
Great article on training your own trees
PDF with some good photos of espaliers

Wolfberry or Goji Berry

2009-02-16T01:27:00.000-08:00

Shrub with a highly nutritious red fruit that can be eaten fresh or dried. You can also eat the young shoots and leaves which are cooked like veggies.

Environment
The Wolfberry is originally from the Himalayas so can tolerate poor soil.
Young plants should be planted in full sun to get the best results but they will grow in partial shade.
You can form a hedge by planting them 1m apart in a row.

Care
A good mulch around the stems is essential to healthy growth but be aware of over feeding.
Regular pruning around spring time to keep it a sensible size and it will produce more fruit. If left alone it will grow to at least 3 metres.
If in a container be sure to add nutrients to the soil.
Occasional watering is good practice although the plant is drought resistant.

Edibles
May take a couple of years before fruit starts to appear.
The fruits will mature late autumn. Shake plant to release ripe fruits.
The fruit can be dried to preserve them.
Goji berry ganache recipe
Various healthy recipes
Need a link to a Goji jam making technique.
Need detail on edible shoots and leaves.

Sources & Information
Overview of Goji growing
Fruit Expert overview of growing

Lettuce

2009-02-15T01:52:00.000-08:00

Let us grow lettuce...

There are a large number of lettuce varieties with varying characteristics, like hardiness and taste. Research should be carried out to find which variety suits the garden's location.

Soil
The soil for your lettuce should be neutral ph and should be prepared for the growing season with some well rotted compost.

Location
Lettuce is not tolerant of a very hot midday sun and should be planted in dappled shade, if not available then some protection will be needed in the form of artificial shade.
Lettuce can be grown in guttering before being planted out into the garden. This allows you to easily control the growing environment while the seeds germinate and the young plants grow.

Lettuce and fava beans[2]

Companions
If you have a very sunny site then sweetcorn is a great companion plant giving shade from the full sun as are small sunflowers - large ones being too much of a draw on water and food.
Mixed lettuce plants with a pale blue trailing lobelia planted in a hanging basket look great[1].
I've found a number of sources that claim strawberries are good companion plants but no explanation of why...
Lettuce is good for filling gaps between other plants like tomatoes. There are plants that shouldn't be planted together like lettuce and potatoes. Companion plant listing are a starting point - an example listing.

Lettuce grown with basil (BBCGardening)

Care
A mulch is a great idea for feeding and keeping the soil moist which is important for growing lettuce. To keep soil moist a drip irrigation or porous pipe system could be used.

Pests and Problems
An overview of the different types
Lettuce is a popular target for many pests with slugs being numero uno.
A mint plant - with contained roots - set amongst a number of lettuce would look nice and help repel slugs.
Growing lettuce in a hanging basket would also be great protection for lettuce.
If lettuce is not watered properly then it may bolt (put its energy into flowering and producing seeds).

Cut and come again lettuce
As the title suggests this type of harvesting allows the plant to regrow and provide a second crop.
The best overview of this type of harvesting in action from www.green-house.tv - the best because there's a puppy. The presenter also has a casual way of gardening, which is nice.

Sources & Information
Overview of growing salad leaves from BBCGardening
Garden action site has a comprehensive article on growing lettuce.
Great article about growing lettuce in hanging baskets:http://ventnorpermaculture.wordpress.com/2008/06/14/growing-lettuce/
Gardeners' World has a good video on container growing mixed salad leaves
[1]Lettuce and lobelia hanging basket - p49 Crops in Pots by Bob Purnell.
[2] Pictures from belindaunderwood.com

Natural Cordage

2009-02-15T01:43:00.000-08:00

Many cordage materials are from man made materials, how about using something a little more natural, they're green and look nice.

A few plants can be used for natural cordage:
Willow
Sagebrush
Milkweed
Cattails
Nettle can be processed into cordage!
Also, small pine tree roots just under the surface are pretty strong.

If anything use hemp, it works and is natural.

Sources & Info
http://imnh.isu.edu/Exhibits/Online/CordageDiscoveryBox/SubMenu_1/index_1A_Plants_temp.htm

Compost

2009-02-11T00:17:00.000-08:00

From my research I've found compost needs carbon and nitrogen sources. As the material composts it generates heat (this heat could be used to warm water [1]). Heat also helps the compost process so a heap shouldn't be too small otherwise heat will escape too quickly.

Structures
Crates are recommended a number of times due to the slats giving air to the heap. Disadvantage being that rats and mice are able to get to the heap.
I've also seen leaves being piled on the ground, in a shady area, with black plastic on top making great compost.

Process
Take compost from bottom and add new material to the top, some compost bins have access points at the bottom. Composting of materials will take about three months.
Heat is essential to the process and there is a process called "hot composting"[4] that speeds up the composting process and is achieved by balancing nitrogen:carbon levels.

Turning
Compost should be turned every six weeks[5]. This will aerate the compost and give a more evenly rotted mass. In the same source it is recommended every week but this seems a little like hard work...

Wormeries
Immensely informative article from Wormcity.

Ingredients and their composting strengths
Paper (carbon)
Wood - needs to be broken up(carbon)
Seaweed (potash, activator)
Comfrey leaves - after they've been used to create comfrey tea, need link (nitrogen, potassium)
Urine! (nitrogen) [2]

Sources & Info
[1]Hot composting to heat water: http://gaianlife.co.uk/wordpress/index.php/archives/category/permaculture/
[2]Mexican raised bed agriculture (RBA) with information about urine as a source of nitrogen: http://journeytoforever.org/garden_con-mexico.html
[3]Using seaweed in the garden
[4]An extensive overview of compost
Compost Crops can also be used to add nutrients to soil
GW video on compost
[5]Great pdf on composting and compost bins.

Chard

2009-02-08T23:55:00.001-08:00

Chard is a hardy member of the beet vegetables that has been bred for tasty, highly nutritious leaves instead of a root crop.

Uses
Leaves can be steamed, roasted, grilled, or sautéed and is excellent on its own or added to pasta, pizza, grains... Here's a link to an interesting recipe.

Environment
Will tolerate cold and might be able to be grown year round depending on the climate.
Loose well drained soil. Young plants need plenty of moisture.
Plant 10 to 15cms apart, two weeks before last spring frost.
Can be grown as a single plant to add a splash of colour to a garden.

Growth Cycle
After a growing phase of a year the next year will produce a good crop starting from just after winter and lasting well into autumn or even winter.
Chard can be sown in May or for a late crop July - August.

Maintenance & Cultivation
Old or damaged leaves should be trimmed and composted.
Make sure plants have a strong growth of leaves for winter.
Don't use small leaves, let them develop so the plant is stronger - increases winter hardiness.

Good Neighbours
Need to list plants that plant well next to chard.
Maybe a hardy, shallow rooting, compost crop, ground cover plant e.g. Clover.

Bad Neighbours
Need to list plants that don't like chard.

Sources
Picture - Hollis Gardens
Info - wiseGEEK; Sufficient by Tom Petherick
Recipes - Chard Wraps

Gaia's Garden - A guide to home-scale permaculture

2009-02-08T17:18:00.000-08:00

How our gardens can be ecosystems that mimic the natural world's ability to grow and prosper without constant human attendance.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/1890132527/ref=sib_dp_pt#reader-link

Compost Crops or Green Manure

2009-02-05T00:34:00.000-08:00

Bare earth is never a good thing so compost crops can be used to fill those gaps. Especially over winter so soil is prepared for spring's onslaught of growth.

Compost crops give back nutrients to the soil, provide ground cover to inhibit weed growth, and protect soil structure. Although very effective their contribution is seen as a supplement to mulching and other feeding methods.

This is an advanced topic so I've collated a number of links below to start off more research into the subject.

Types of compost crop
Rye grass is recommended as an overwinter crop. After winter it is cut, with cuttings added to the compost heap or left to rot. The remnants can be dug over or if no dig is implemented then a mulch can be added to stop regrowth and rot down the remains.

Sources and Info
Good intro and method of using cover crops
Overview of using organic compost crops
UK based company with an extensive list and details of compost crops
A US based list of compost crops which would be good for UK aswell
RHS article about green manure
gardenorganic.org.uk for rye grass as a compost crop

Keeping Bees - Project

2009-02-04T22:33:00.000-08:00

Project to keep bees for season.

Bees are great for pollination and, of course, honey.

Todo
There are advocates for leaving most of the honey for the bees for the natural purpose of fuel for winter. Pros and cons of such an approach

How to keep bees - suitability for sizes of garden, plants they need, list diseases/ pests.

Sources
Sobering article on the decline of bees: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/environment/article5604401.ece
Article written by a beginner bee keeper.
Beginners guide courtesy of British Bee Keepers Association (BBKA): http://www.britishbee.org.uk/getting_started.php

Ivy

2009-02-03T13:39:00.000-08:00

Doesn't really fit into the realm of edible or useful for edible plants. It provides cover reasonably fast but can be invasive and destructive to walls.

Removing ivy - http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-get-rid-of-ivy

Gardening Database

2009-02-02T00:48:00.000-08:00

Project
A plant database for a fictional company that specialises in edible gardens (potager).
Such a database could be authored

Each customer (open to all, not just customers) has a list of plants in their garden. The system will send auto emails with info on what they should be looking at doing for maintenance of that plant.

Implementation
This blog is pre-cursor to the database: plant data can be added to the db (need to find a structure for plant posts that will be template for all).

Issues
Time needed to populate the database: many authors could be used.
This system should already be out there... Find sources.

Willows

2009-02-02T00:45:00.000-08:00

Structures
Willow trees would not fit into many gardens but can be used to create structures - dry or living.

Need to investigate if living willow structures can support edible plants, like the legumes. Will the willow crowd out other plants or use all the water in the soil.

Environment
Willows need plenty of water and will grow to a large size quite quickly
Some will tolerate hard conditions like drought and water logging. .

Varieties
Need to list any dwarf varieties, fuel specific, and different colours

Fuel
Willow is a great source of fuel. The most efficient method I have found is with a wood chip burner: auto system, shown, opposed to the traditional, low tech, type. Willow grown for a chip burner is coppiced on a 3 year cycle. Logs are a 5 year cycle.

Sources & links
Picture - The Willow Bank
Auto wood chip burner - Swebo
Winters wood chip burners
Growing willow - The Willow Bank
Great article on wood burners from the folk at Chickenshack
Informative pdf on wood as fuel

Bamboo Irrigation - Project

2009-01-25T00:56:00.000-08:00

Before implementing any bamboo irrigation in a garden I need to define:

1. Longevity of such a system:
Green and mature bamboo.
2. Materials:
To seal/ strengthen joints.
Costs.
3. Labour needed - hours.
4. Cost compared to a plastic system:
Take into account labour, materials, longevity.

Development ideas
Possible use of a reclaimed toilet flush system instead of filling a bucket. Bricks added could control amount...
Tree barks for tying?
How to seal bamboo?
Tool for hollowing bamboo needed.

Implementation Details

To be added, one day....

Kiwi Fruit

2009-01-23T00:26:00.000-08:00

A vigorous climber so good for sheds, frames or even trees! Can be grown in a pot or the ground.

Types
There a various types of kiwi. There are self pollinating types available.

Care
Young shoots can be susceptible to cold damage so may be worth protecting plant with gauze.
Cut off anything that dies off in winter.
Container plants need watering and feeding regularly during summer.
Due to its vigorous growing habit pruning will be needed to control growth.

Sources & Information
Video:http://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/projects/kiwi-plants-planting/
Good example of training against horizontal wires:http://rhs.org.uk/advice/profiles0607/kiwifruit.asp

Figs

2009-01-22T22:52:00.000-08:00

Planting
Sunny well drained soil. Confine the roots with barriers buried in the soil on the sides of the hole e.g. paving slabs to prevent the fig growing too big - they can grow to 30 foot.
Figs can be planted in a container.
Figs can be trained against a fence or grown as a tree.

Care
A new plant with one stem can be cut back to 15" to encourage more stems.
After winter prune dead wood and overly long braches to 2"
Container
If in a container then will need to be re potted every 2 years. Container figs should be trained as bushes.
Feed and water container plants regularly.
Relocate plant undercover and ensure warmth.
Ground
During winter need to cover plant with gauze to insulate against frost. Also a mulch over winter will help.

Types
Self fertile varieties are available
'Violette de Bordeaux' is a dwarf variety.

Sources & Info
Video of planting by Monty: http://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/projects/fig-tree-planting/
RHS Article: http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profiles0303/container_figs.asp

Mushrooms

2009-01-20T15:04:00.000-08:00

Shiitake and other oyster type mushrooms can be cultivated on hardwood logs - apparently oak is good due to its strong bark retention.

For detailed information on mushroom growing:http://www.mycosource.com/homecult.htm
An overview of the above article
A reasonably fresh piece of hardwood is needed as an already rotten one will be infested with other fungi already.

Holes are drilled in the wood - 1.5" deep, 4" apart from each other.

Dowel spawn can be inserted and tapped in place by a hammer. Saw dust spawn is inserted and a wax cap applied on top to stop the spawn drying.

The log is then left for about 6 months to a year in a shady area. One end of the log should be on the ground to soak up moisture
To activate the mushrooms' growing cycle water is needed - soaking for 6 - 8 hours or sprinkler for 12 hours. If outside then this shouldn't need to be done artificially. After a growing cycle the logs are rested for a couple of months before another growing cycle. Again, in the context of edible gardens this is not needed.

Notes
Need to test on a garden first. Is it possible to use the log as a container side/ panel?
Need more info on UK growing!

Sources & Info
http://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/projects/mushrooms-grow/

Irrigation & Watering

2009-01-20T13:29:00.000-08:00

Drip Systems
A drip system feeds the plants what they need over a long period. It has been reported to show impressive results in arid lands through a reduction in surface run off and evaporation[1] Pipes with holes can feed the drips to the plants or special pipes that express the water through their walls.
Drip systems can be fitted with timing devices fitted to the pipe or just a bucket with a tap to regulate flow.

One example found was a system of pipes and a bucket that was filled twice a day for watering - easy gardening.

Deep Pipe Irrigation
Deep pipe irrigation is a technique that involves inserting a perforated pipe with a sealed top near to the plants root system. A drip system can be added to the pipe or normal watering is ok. Such a system would drastically reduce evaporation and eliminate surface run off.

Bamboo would be a good alternative to plastic but need to source decent sized bamboo. Does it have to be green bamboo to repel water and not rot so quick?

Materials
Usual plastics are the most obvious.
Bamboo has potential for such an application. Need to find examples.
Pipes that express water through their walls need to be researched.

Notes
Time setting up drip regulation could be a problem.

Possible use with trees to increase yields.

Sources
[1]http://www.ecocomposite.org/restoration/deeppipe.htm

Suppliers
Add when suggested

Agroforestry

2009-01-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

The practice of combining agriculture and forestry to increase sustainability and value to land.

Sources and Info
http://www.unl.edu/nac/
A good resource of agroforestry examples and information.

A Patch of Eden

2009-01-20T11:43:00.000-08:00

A book describing the resurgence of urban community gardening.

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Patch-Eden-Americas-Inner-City-Gardeners/dp/0930031806

Tomatillos - Mexican Husk Tomato

2009-01-20T01:03:00.000-08:00

Similar to tomatoes for growing requirements.

Needs two or more plants for cross pollination.

Used in South American recipes for its green colour and tart flavour.

Storage
Stored with husks in a cool, dry place, in a single layer for several months.
Whole plant can be pulled up and hung in a similar environment until the fruits are needed.
Frozen whole or sliced.

Sources
Detailed overview of the Mexican husk tomato
An example recipe

Waru Waru - Peruvian RBA

2009-01-19T22:19:00.000-08:00

Old system of growing food that involves raised beds and corrugated soil. It is believed that these beds supported large populations of people by producing high yields of crops.

The Peruvian government is actively supporting the rebuilding of the Waru Waru as they suit the local ecosystem, as proved by the success of crops.

Sources:
http://fadr.msu.ru/rodale/agsieve/txt/vol1/2/art6.html
http://www.oas.org/usde/publications/unit/oea59e/ch27.htm
http://www.sas.upenn.edu/~cerickso/applied3.html

Raised Bed Agriculture (RBA)

2009-01-18T22:58:00.000-08:00

Also called raised bed gardening (RBG), a raised bed can be soil piled up above the ground level or, as is more common, frames built up to hold soil.

Simple, working example of a raised bed, source

Some advantages to RBA:

A raised bed can be used where soil is not suitable for growing e.g wrong ph for desired crop, poor drainage, contaminated soil.
Raise them up a couple of feet and they are perfect for older people or those that just don't want to be bending over or kneeling in soil all day. Also, there is no heavy digging to do.
Add height to a garden and help define different areas of the garden.
Raised beds can also be implemented on geographically challenging areas e.g. in Honduras RBA has been used on land sloping nearly 75% [1].

More information can be found here: Overview of RBA from SimpleGifts Farm.com

No dig gardening is an integral part of the raised bed garden as nobody should ever step on the soil as this will compact it. Due to this limitation beds should be sized so that a gardener can reach into the middle of the bed from the side.

Raised bed gardening is well suited to the square foot gardening practice with beds 3 feet wide (average comfortable reach for someone) and however long you want it.

Examples
Here's a great example of raised beds in someone's front yard from the GardenWeb forums - from yard to jungle.

Here's a good example of raised beds on sloped ground:

Sources & Information
[1]Benefits of RBA: http://www.minifarms.com/rba.html#4

Pictures:
HarrodHorticulture, 2 tier RBG source and a good newsletter article to boot
Sloped ground picture source

Manual pest control

2009-01-14T19:44:00.002-08:00

The levels of slug and snail population can be lessened by physically removing them:

I would regularly go out into the garden at night and hunt out pests and remove them. This was very effective when it was raining as this would bring them out early.

After a few months I noticed a decline in attacks on my plants.

Also, snails and slugs are creatures of habit: I would see a young plant had been attacked, the next morning another. On one of my nightly patrols I found the culprit: one of the largest slugs I'd ever seen...

Nematodes for pest control

2009-01-14T19:44:00.001-08:00

Nematodes can be a natural way to kill off slugs and snails - http://www.greengardener.co.uk/slug.htm

Diatomaceous earth

2009-01-14T19:10:00.000-08:00

Can be used as a mechanical insecticide among other uses.

Also has uses in hydroponics and as a soil additive.

It's success in pest control is based upon its drying action which absorbs lipids from insects. To increase its efficacy an attractant should be used. Maybe use in a trap?

Use the freshwater type as this is considered safer than the sea type.

For more information on its uses follow the links.

Links:
Thanks to Joe for this link: //blog.gardenharvestsupply.com/2008/09/01/how-do-we-love-thee/

Wiki:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diatomaceous_earth

Tomatoes

2009-01-13T23:17:00.000-08:00

A plant that needs care for all of its life and rewards the diligent gardener with an abundance of the finest fruits.

Types
There are two main types of tomato: cordon and bush. Of the two types there is then sub varieties - many listed here. Tomatoes have a large number of heirloom varieties - a comprehensive list from the Allotment Gardening site.

Environment
All tomatoes need warmth and protection from frost. Grown in a protected environment, like a greenhouse, they will flourish.
Sterile compost is needed for seeds. If the plant is to be container grown compost should be used. Compost used for tomatoes shouldn't be used more than one season - spread it on the garden.
When planted in the ground then lots of organic matter should be added. Also a mulch would be good to help feeding and retention of water - same for containers.
Each kind of tomato has different needs so as always the Sources & Info section

Maintenance
A vital part of growing cordon type tomatoes is de-shooting to maximise the fruit yield - a great video showing how. There is no need to de-shoot/ prune bush tomatoes.
Container tomatoes need to be fed at least every two weeks. Make sure plants have plenty of water. If the leaves start going brown then this may be a sign of dehydration.
Blight is a major problem.
Whitefly will attack tomatoes.
Irregular watering can damage tomatoes.

Companions
Marigolds - Can be planted around the base of the tomato.
Basil - basil and tomato go great together in food and planted together. Basil will repel whitefly and a host of other insects..
Nastutiums and mint are also great companion plants.

Storage
Made into fresh tomato sauce, salsa, relish, or chutney then frozen.

Sources & Information
Very interesting technique called Multirooting that increases growth.
RHS article on successful tomato growing
The Allotment Gardening site is essential reading for growing tomatoes

Square foot gardens!?

2009-01-13T23:10:00.001-08:00

Links:
Video intro to SFGs:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLSskFxT1kA

http://journeytoforever.org/garden_con-mexico.html
http://www.minifarms.com/rba.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Square_foot_gardening

Edible flowers

2009-01-13T22:02:00.002-08:00

Edible flowers can be preserved with egg white and sugar.

Method:http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/article/crystallizing-rose-petals
List of edible flowers:http:http://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers/EdibleFlowersMain.htm