HOM E & GARDEN
by Camy Reynolds • camy@myjarrell.com
Tips and Tricks for Gardening Success
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WHERE TO PLANT
rystal Zaniewski believes gardening is as much about when and where you are growing as the what and how. This is particuarly important given the unpredictable weather and varying soil types in Central Texas. Crystal and her family have lived in Jarrell for five years, and, while her husband has always been the primary gardener of the family, her own love of it has grown over the past two years. "I've had a lot of personal transitions and the garden gives me a sense of purpose. It truly saved my life and keeps me sane." Right now, Crystal is growing green beans, onions, herbs, zucchini, squash, blackberries, watermelon, artichokes, beets, peppers, tomatoes, corn, grapes, plums, figs, strawberries, lettuce, avocados, potatoes, and a variety of flowers. Her intent is to minimize the family's need to visit the grocery store and eat only what they produce on their own land. Not only does she enjoy knowing where her food comes from, she is pleased that it is also healthier and cheaper.
WHEN TO PLANT She started with one raised flower bed and, this year, has expanded to 13. She prefers to plant in the Fall, despite most saying Spring is 20
Even within Central Texas, there are variations in soil, water, and environmental factors that can affect your garden. Crystal recommends checking with local nurseries, "Most typically carry plants that grow well where the nursery is located, particularly those that can sustain themselves in our hot summers."
the best time to start your garden. "The guides may say full sun but that doesn’t necessarily mean full Texas sun. I recommend planting in the Fall so by the time the intense heat of Summer rolls around, your plants are well established and more likely to survive." She also cautions gardeners not to fall short by a lack of watering, which is extremely difficult to keep up with during the summer. Crystal suggests those new to gardening start with lettuce and herbs, "It's best to start small and simple, being sure to grow things you know you will eat. Plus, I have grown to rely on the Texas A&M Ag Extension as a great resource to learn which fruits and vegetables are grown best in each season."
J U N E 2021 M Y JA R R ELL M O NT HLY
She adds that soil is key. "If you have rocky or caliche type soil, a raised bed would be your best option as you can pick your own soil. You can purchase raised organic bed soil from a local nursery or large box stores like Home Depot, and give your flower beds the perfect base. Over time, as you build your soil, it just gets better and better." She also adds composite to her soil each year to increase the quality.
WHAT TO PLANT Crystal affirms we don’t have to have a green thumb to be successful. "All it takes is a little bit of attention, good soil, and water. It’s very much trial and error and just figuring out what works best for you." She says lettuce is a great choice for beginners. It only takes about six weeks to grow and, fun fact, you can cut off the top of it with scissors to make yourself a salad and it will continue to grow back, just like hair.
