Row by Row Episode 174: How To Extend Your Food Source
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Tonight, Greg and Sheila talk about all things herbs and fruit orchards!! Expand your food supply!
Start Small, Start Simple
Herbs
When growing outside, consider those herbs that are hardy and can handle changing of seasons/cold weather. Lavender and Rosemary. Consider how large they will grow when planting. If planting in a raised bed, keep larger plants to the back and small plants in the front. This will make harvesting easier. Don't plant herbs together that need different amounts of sunlight and water.
You'll do well planting tarragon and basil together. They love full sun and like a bit of extra water. Put your rosemary, sage, and thyme together because they prefer drier and sandier soil.
Cool Season Herbs
Warm Season Herbs
Sage
Mint
Bay Leaves
Fruit Orchards
Augment your supply of homegrown food beyond the traditional food garden. Choose those that bear fruit at different times of the year to further extend your harvest. Preserve homegrown fruit for jams. You can dry, freeze and ferment your fruits, as well. Greg and Sheila grow fig trees, grapes, blackberries, blueberries, mulberries, peaches, apples, lemons, limes, oranges, and strawberries!
Knowing your soil is vital. There are two important factors in determining if a particular tree or plant will grow well in your part of the country. First, you need to live within the recommended USDA Hardiness Zone and if you're planting a fruit or nut tree, you must determine if your area receives enough annual "chill hours".
Where To Plant
Look for an open spot in the yard. Fruit trees generally need at least six hours of full sunlight in order to grow strong and produce healthy fruit. Don't plant the trees where they will be shaded by your house or taller trees. Limes are excellent for those with limited space, they can be planted in larger containers and can be brought indoors for protection.
Where to Buy
Local nursery (carry trees that will grow well in your area), big-box centers, or online. Remember - bigger isn't always better, look for bulging tight pots, signs of pest or disease issues, good shape, structure, and generally healthy-looking plants.
Shop Stark Brothers Fruit Trees - use coupon code ROWBYROW10 to receive a 10% off discount on your order.