Tips for Planting and Watering Vegetables in Raised Beds

·         Never plant in a dry hole

·         Water more often as it gets hotter

·         Water just before the heat of the day

·         Use mulches to keep soils from drying

Soils containing composts are rich and full of nutrients for plants. It is very important to get seeds and transplants off to a good start when planting in rich soils. Follow these general guidelines when planting:

·         During the first week after planting, whether it’s seeds or transplants, never let soil around seeds or roots dry out.

·         Make sure garden soils are wet at the time of planting. Never plant into dry soil.

·         Delay applying fertilizers until you see growth from seeds or new growth from transplants.

Here are some additional guidelines for watering during the heat:

·         When temperatures are above 105F, water three times a day.

·         In hot summer months when temperatures are above 85F water 2 to 3 times a day; morning (7-8am), midday (noon to 1pm) and afternoon (5 to 6pm).

During the cooler months:

·         When temperatures are between 65F and 85F water 1 to 2 times per day;

morning and afternoon.

·         During winter months, December and January, watering is needed no more than once a day. Sometimes it may be once every three days in very cold weather.

Other tips:

·         Always water before the heat of the day.

·         Use surface mulches such as shredded paper (no colored paper or inks please!), straw or wood shavings to keep soils cool and reduce plant stress from dry soils.

Visit the Viragrow website and blog for more tips:

www.viragrow.com

www.viragrowdelivers.blogspot.com

Viragrow Delivers!