a Montrose favorite. “They’re tomato crazy in this valley,” Sammons said. “And that’s not a bad thing.” Sammons also noted that peppers do very well here, as do leafy greens, root and vine crops, and cole crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and kale. The most important thing in choosing plants is knowing the required growing season. Montrose’s growing season, generally 120 to 150 days, is considered to be somewhat short . Plants that require a longer season, such as artichokes and peanuts, can grow here but should be started indoors or in a greenhouse and protected from frosts. For the best chance of success, Sammons recommends starting out with varieties that mature in 90 days or less but also notes that “anything can work, just ask.” The most common mistake? “Overwatering young plants,” Sammons said. “Beginners tend to be overzealous with their watering.” An uptick in vegetable gardeners in the area over the last four to five years has resulted in an increased variety of plants and seeds becoming available locally. Camelot Gardens has more than 40 varieties of tomatoes and 22 types of pepper plants started, in addition to squash, melons, cucumbers, onions, eggplants and herbs, plus several seed lines, some of which are organic. As the season continues, new varieties will also be available, and Camelot Gardens is also willing to take special orders. For more information about growing edible gardens in Montrose, ask the Camelot Gardens experts at 16612 S. Townsend Ave. or visit the Colorado State University extension site for this area at www.westernslopegardening.org. g
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Basil is a good starter plant for budding horticulturists. (Katrina Kinsley)
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Magazine • Spring/Summer 2012
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