Second Key: Creating Rich Growing Soil

COMMENTARY

• Deep, well-draining yet moisture retentive soil is essential for healthy plant growth
  • Ideal depth of 18 inches deep
  • Testing soil drainage by filling an 18-inch hole twice with water to see how quickly it drains
  • Soil should have a third of organic matter for fertility and moisture retention
  • Soil pH between 6 and 7 for optimal plant nutrient absorption
  • Gypsum is effective improving clay soil permeability and promoting root development

Key Number 3: Food From Plants

COMMENTARY

•  Asparagus
  • Long term crop requiring 2-3 years before harvesting
  • Requires a minimum 3X3 foot space
• Basil
  • Smaller leaf types like full sun
  • Lager leaf need afternoon shade
• Beans can be grown on trellises also providing shade and microclimates
• Corn planted in clusters, not rows, for pollination from wind and pollinators
• Cucumbers
  • Grown on vertical trellises in partial shade
  • American cucumbers like ground growth
• Eggplants can produce year round with proper care
• Jicama is a perfect tasty summer crop

Fourth Key: Attracting Pollinators

COMMENTARY

• Plants like marigolds are excellent companion plants that attract pollinators and deter pests
• Nasturtiums fix nitrogen in soil and produce edible flowers with culinary uses
• Spring salad mixes and baby greens thrive in shaded microclimates this season
• Melons can be grown vertically on sturdy trellises to save space and support fruit

RESOURCE

• Queen Creek Botanical Gardens