E.U. Certifies Bugs as Fit for Human Consumption | Helping Others Get Started in the Garden Pt. 2

Considering a new garden? Think Location, location, location! Since plants can’t move, its very important to consider the natural benefits that the location would offer. Planting in a good location is ideal to the overall health of the garden. Sunlight is one of the most important factors when considering a garden, if not the most important. All plants require light for photosynthesis to produce energy, grow, bloom and produce seeds. To thrive and do their best, most vegetables need “full sun,” which is defined as “at least 6 hours on unobstructed sunlight per day.” In most cases, more light (8 hours) is even better.

There are some crops that can tolerate less sunny spots or partial shade, these may include broccoli, lettuce, spinach and other tender crops. While others need full sun like tomatoes and potatoes.

Choose the right location

Since most plants will need plenty of sun, select a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. There may be situations where you may have a small yard space however, if possible, choose an open area that is not overshadowed by trees or buildings. Give plants at least 10 feet from walls if possible. Vegetables that do not receive adequate sunlight will be more susceptible to disease and insect damage than if planted in full sun.

If you are in an area where the summer climate is very hot, consider that your plants may need some shade, especially cool-season vegetables such as peas, spinach or lettuce. In this case, add a shade cloth or plant cool-weather veggies in the shadow of taller climbing plants such as pole beans. In the heat of summer, a building or a fence will give plants a break from the evening sun.

Before getting plants or starting seeds, determine the quality and hours of natural light then choose plants with light requirements that match the environment. While you are outdoors watch the pattern of the sun to get a good understanding of where to put your vegetables. In most cases, while laying out your garden; north is good a location for plants that need partial shade (4 hours of sunlight), east is ideal for plants that require medium light (6 hours of sunlight) and southwest is ideal for plants needing full sun (8 hours of sunlight).