Time to plant
The exact date varies each year, but once it hits 60- or 70-degree weather, you can start to put your plants in the ground.
If you are buying seedlings (baby plants) instead of planting from seed, get them at the farmer's market or at a garden store.
The advantage of these is that they usually survive longer and produce more fruit. The only disadvantage is that they are more costly than buying seeds.
Dig a hole big enough to put your plant in, place the roots in the ground, tamp the soil back down around the roots, and give it plenty of water. Make sure that your plant is packed securely enough in the dirt to be steady, and not at the mercy of the wind.You're not finished yet!
Once you've done all this, you still have to care for your plants every day.
Support your plants so they don’t tip over.
Water your plants
Water the plants every day in the beginning, except if rain is in the forecast. The best time to water is in the morning, before the heat of the afternoon sun.
One easy way to water your plants every day is to set up a sprinkler, and move it from time to time.
Otherwise, just grab a hose, and spray your plants for about 15 minutes, rotating around the garden.
Don't spray the plants harder than the rain would, otherwise your plants will simply topple over!
Every day, check to make sure your plants are getting enough water. Once they are thriving, one inch a week of rain or your watering is ideal.
Have fun maintaining your plants and be sure to take a step back every once in a while to admire your work!
Ready for the harvest? Thinking about the yummy results will motivate you to continue to look out for your garden. Read the last article in this series, "Gardening: Avoid Pitfalls and Reap the Harvest."
Click Abe's head for the answer.
age 13
