Vegetable Gardners

Veggies from the writer’s garden prove her claim, “There’s nothing like knowing exactly where your food comes from!” Photo by Leslie Finical Halleck.

A Greener Garden

I’m sure more and more of you are hearing buzz words like “sustainability” and “eco-friendly” when it comes to gardening. Those terms are broad, hard to define and, frankly, mean a lot of different things to different people. So what can you do to go greener in the garden? Here are some simple ways to take steps towards a more sustainable landscape.

Choosing plants that are well adapted to our climate and use less water is a great first step. That doesn’t mean that the plants you choose have to be “natives.” Texas is a big state, and what’s native to one part of the state may not thrive in another part. Choose plants recommended for your area. Mulching your garden in spring and fall is also a great way to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.

Try to buy locally when you can. Support local retailers who provide locally produced plants and products. By purchasing local products from local vendors, you’ll cut down on the materials and fuel necessary to create and transport the goods.

Have your automated irrigation system audited to identify any leaks or performance problems. This can save you a lot of wasted water and money on your water bill. Learn how to program your system properly by zone so you’re not overwatering portions of your landscape. It’s best to have a certified irrigation specialist perform the audit.

Consider setting up compost bins. Huge amounts of kitchen waste and yard clippings can easily be recycled in a relatively small space in your landscape. Why throw all that valuable organic matter into the landfill? Use your own compost to amend your garden soil.

Make this year your year to get the vegetable garden started. In today’s world, getting back to the basics is a priority for many of us. Growing and preserving our own food, at least some of it, can go a long way to cutting down on costs and reducing our impact on the environment. Vegetables and herbs can be grown even in small spaces and containers in an urban garden. Kitchen gardens can be large or tiny, but no matter the size, they are rewarding.

There’s much to do in the kitchen garden right now, and it’s a great time to get started. Plant tomato transplants outdoors mid-March, along with peppers and many other veggies. Direct seed lettuce right into the garden for a quick salad crop. You can also direct seed herbs like cilantro and dill, along with beans, corn, squash, cucumbers and more for early-summer harvest. Garden centers should have plenty of veggie transplants for you to choose from this time of year. Don’t forget, many vegetables and herbs are also beautiful ornamentals. Mix in containers with spring color for a great display. There’s nothing like knowing exactly where your food comes from, especially when it’s your own backyard!

About the author: Leslie Finical Halleck is a horticulturist and general manager for North Haven Gardens in Dallas, Texa

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