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Virginia Tech Gardening and Cooperative Extension Publications



early spring gardening tips



There are many methods to obtain Virginia Cooperative Extension publications at no cost. These publications are available for public use. They can be reprinted with a citation. They are free. Authors can order copies to distribute. You can order printed copies of the VCE Storefront if you are a staff member or faculty member. All Virginia Cooperative Extension publications are available for free on the VCE website.

Virginia Cooperative Extension Service (VCES), focuses on agriculture and agribusiness, as well as home economics, community development, and 4-H Clubs. Extension is a part of a multi-state, federal and local program. It is an effective way to share the knowledge of land-grant universities with citizens. Exemplifying the concept of extension is Virginia's Agricultural Experiment Station.


horticulture tips

Insect Identification Services - The Virginia Cooperative Extension has a Plant Disease Clinic to identify insects and other pathogens. The clinic can diagnose a variety environmental issues and plants. It can identify weeds, mushrooms, and any other type of plant. Digital photographs of insects and plants can be analyzed by the Cooperative Extension. Cooperative Extension has many publications. This means that you will likely be able to locate the one that meets your needs.


It is important to choose the right date for vegetable gardening. To ensure a successful crop, vegetables can be grown in a variety of conditions. USDA Plant Hardiness Zones is a guide to help you choose the best dates for your location. You will also find specific guidelines on plant spacing and seeding as well the recommended number of plants per 10 foot row. This information is vital for a successful garden.

It is possible to grow apples in your backyard. This is a great way to have fun with them. The key to growing apples in your garden is to be knowledgeable about the trees and their needs. A good soil that is well-drained will not only prevent disease but also increase the quality of your crop. Virginia Cooperative Extension has many educational and technical resources available to gardeners and farmers. You can also find many online resources for home gardeners in addition to printed publications.


tips if gardens

The topography of Virginia and the region's large area allow for different varieties of fruit to be grown. The average state's apple crops are located on 13,774 acreage. Peaches can be grown on an average 175 acres each year. By comparison, Virginia has a total of 99 acres of peach and sweet and tart cherry orchards. Their annual apple and peach crop is sixth in the country. State's peach production estimated at $35 Million.


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FAQ

What is a planting calendar?

A planting calendar lists the plants that should all be planted at various times during the year. The goal is to maximise growth while minimizing stress. Early spring crops like spinach, lettuce, and peas must be sow after the last frost date. Later spring crops include cucumbers, squash, and summer beans. Fall crops include carrots and cabbage, broccoli, cauliflowers, kale, potatoes, and others.


How do I prepare the soil for a garden?

It is simple to prepare soil for your vegetable garden. First, remove all weeds in the area where you plan to plant vegetables. Then, add organic matter such as composted manure, leaves, grass clippings, straw, or wood chips. Then water the plants well and wait for them to sprout.


Which vegetables are best to grow together?

Growing tomatoes and peppers together is excellent because they both like similar temperatures and soil conditions. They can complement each other because tomatoes require heat to mature, and peppers require lower temperatures for their optimal flavor. Start seeds indoors approximately six weeks prior to planting. Once the weather cools down, transplant the pepper or tomato plants outdoors.



Statistics

  • Today, 80 percent of all corn grown in North America is from GMO seed that is planted and sprayed with Roundup. - parkseed.com
  • It will likely be ready if a seedling has between 3 and 4 true leaves. (gilmour.com)
  • As the price of fruit and vegetables is expected to rise by 8% after Brexit, the idea of growing your own is now better than ever. (countryliving.com)
  • According to the National Gardening Association, the average family with a garden spends $70 on their crops—but they grow an estimated $600 worth of veggies! - blog.nationwide.com



External Links

almanac.com


thespruce.com




How To

2023 Planting calendar: When to plant vegetables

Planting vegetables at a soil temperature between 50 and 70 degrees F is the best time. Plants that are left too long can become stressed and produce lower yields.

The average time it takes for seeds to germinate is four weeks. Seedlings require six hours of direct sun each day after they emerge. Additionally, they should be given five inches of water each week.

Summer is the best season for vegetable crops. There are exceptions. For instance, tomatoes are good all year.

You will need to protect your plants against frost if you live in colder climates. The plants can be covered with plastic mulch, straw bales and row cover fabric.

You can also buy heat mats that keep the ground warm. These mats are placed under the plants and covered with soil.

Keep weeds under control by using a weeding tool or hoe. You can get rid of weeds by cutting them at their base.

Compost can be added to your planting hole in order to stimulate healthy root system growth. Compost is a good way to retain water and provide nutrients.

Keep the soil moist but not saturated. Water deeply once every week.

Water thoroughly so that all the roots are wetted. Allow the excess water to drain into the soil.

Avoid overwatering. Overwatering can lead to disease and fungus.

Fertilize late in the season. Fertilizing too soon can lead to stunting and poor fruit production. Wait for the plants to start producing flowers.

Removing any damaged crops after harvest is a good idea. You can risk rotting if you harvest too quickly.

Harvest fruits when fully ripe. The stems can be removed and the fruits stored in a cool location.

You can store the picked vegetables immediately in the fridge

In summary, growing your own food is easy! It's fun and rewarding. The rewards are delicious, healthy food that tastes great.

Growing your food yourself is easy. You only need patience, knowledge, and planning.




 



Virginia Tech Gardening and Cooperative Extension Publications