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kabuti
December 15th, 2005, 04:29 AM
Hi, I have been growing a garden for years. I now have about 5k,square-ft plot w very good ramona sandy loam. approx 6 in down a layer of appx 2in compact soil, then good subsoil. I have been dub-dig 3x20ft beds initially & have 5 finished & planted in cover. have space here for 20 or so more w 2ft paths. I will plant squash, Tom. cuke & beans-peas to sell. it gets very hot & dry here (desert) up to above 110 at times.We do have access to water, also will grow a little of everything else. Everything grows well here. I am hauling tons of 'compost' in from a friends stable down the street. We are now surrounded by houses & every one wants to buy from me. I dont plan on EVER re-digging the beds once made. I do intend to plant from seed directly in the garden as root system will develope better. & will be trying my old style of letting garden be in a 'controlled' natural state as this suits me & seems to me to be proper. My much smaller but most successful venture utilised good sized trees at the west end to shade the plants in the PM so will plant couple drought tol. trees in the garden this spring to help. I was formerly against this until I remembered that was how was able to grow artichokes etc. there. I'm going to try to gradually do less & less interference once have the system started & will grow crops year round here. Also have room to expand if this works out over the coming year. This is a Great forum. Thanks!

scakya
December 16th, 2005, 10:57 AM
Hi,
Like you I use the trees to provide shade for may of my crops. We also live in the desert, but at 6200' it doesn't generally get hot,however the sun can and does burn many vegetables and fruits that ordinarily do well in full sun. Many of my raised beds are for such types and until some of the trees get big enough I use shade clothe or build shade houses over beds to shelter from midday sun.
Good luck with your 2006 market garden. You have my respect working with those types of summer temps! )

scakya

Pharmerphil
December 18th, 2005, 09:07 AM
dead opposite in Mn. neeed more heat!!!LOL

littlechickenfarmer
January 10th, 2006, 11:52 PM
I promise to send you some this year Phil, maybe you can send me a snowball!