It
is mid-February and most gardeners' fingers are itching to dig in the soil. The
soil has been tested and amended according to the Extension Service analysis
and perhaps a germination station has been set up. What is next? Now is a good time to decide what, when and
where.
If
you have not done so, it is time to purchase seed. Look through those beautiful
catalogs and make a list. Check to see if your favorites will grow successfully
in your zone (west Kentucky is in Zone 7a.) Before you place an online or
catalog order, see if the local nurseries or farm stores have them, saving the
cost of shipping.
Hopefully
the decision on where was decided before the soil was tested. Vegetables
require a sunny location fairly close to a water source. Remember, it is not
unusual to have extended periods of time without significant rain fall during
the summer months.
The
early spring garden can be started as soon as the soil can be worked. Raised
beds will be ready to plant earlier than traditional gardens. Peas, spinach and
beets can be planted as early as March1.
The
University of Kentucky Extension Service publication, Home Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky, gives detailed information of
the what, when and where as well as how to care for
the garden after it is planted. The free publication can be downloaded here or a copy can be picked up at the
McCracken County Extension office, 2705 Olivet Church Road in Paducah.
