Growing leafy vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, cilantro, and broccoli for nutrition and added self-sufficiency can be a rewarding and beneficial activity. Here are some steps and tips to help you grow these vegetables successfully:
1. Choose the right time and location: Leafy greens prefer cool weather (50 to 75 degrees F) and require full sun[3]. Plan your garden accordingly, considering the best months to grow them in your area.
2. Prepare the soil: Leafy greens grow best in rich, loamy soil containing plenty of organic matter[7]. Before planting, incorporate compost into the soil and use starter fertilizer when transplanting[8].
3. Sow and plant: Sow seeds or plant seedlings at the appropriate depth and spacing, depending on the specific needs of each vegetable[8]. For example, sow spinach, kale, and mustard six weeks before the average last frost in spring, three weeks later for lettuce and Swiss chard[3].
4. Water and moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy[3]. Water the plants right after transplanting with a weak solution of seaweed/fish emulsion[7].
5. Fertilize: Use organic fertilizers or compost to provide essential nutrients for the plants[8]. Side-dress the plants three weeks after planting with additional fertilizer if needed[8].
6. Weed and pest control: Hand-pull weeds or cut them at the soil line with a sharp hoe[8]. Spread organic mulch around plants to prevent weed germination and conserve soil moisture[8]. Be cautious of pests and diseases, and use organic methods to control them when necessary.
7. Harvesting: Harvest outer leaves, young leaves, or entire plants as needed[8]. For example, harvest spinach, kale, and mustard when they are 6 to 8 inches apart[3].
8. Cook and consume: Incorporate your fresh leafy greens into various dishes, such as salads, sautéed greens, or as a substitute for other greens in your regular meals[5].
By following these steps and tips, you can successfully grow leafy vegetables like spinach, lettuce, cilantro, and broccoli for added nutrition and self-sufficiency in your garden.
Citations:
[1] https://earthbox.com/blog/self-sufficient-gardening
[2] https://www.sarabackmo.com/growing-a-lot-of-vegetables/
[3] https://www.gardengatemagazine.com/articles/vegetables/edible-plant-guide/how-to-grow-your-own-greens/
[4] https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/self-sufficient-garden.htm
[5] https://www.baptisthealth.com/blog/health-and-wellness/health-benefits-of-leafy-greens
[6] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/leafy-green-vegetables
[7] https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/how-to-grow-salad-greens-all-year/7272.html
[8] https://extension.umd.edu/resource/growing-leafy-greens-home-garden
[9] https://www.amymyersmd.com/article/benefits-leafy-greens
