| What vegetables will grow in this area? When should I start them? |
| Yours is a tricky climate, one where you might get a frost even during the height of summer. You can grow most any vegetable to maturity, but concentrate on varieties that mature quickly, such as Burpee's 'Early Girl', 'Northern Exposure' and 'Early Pick' tomatoes, 'Little Dipper Hybrid' and 'Gypsy Hybrid' bell peppers, and 'Early Choice' and 'Northern Xtra-Sweet' corn. As you look through the catalog, read the descriptions of varieties that mature in 70-90 days or less, and you should do fine. For a jump on the season, start your warmth-loving plants indoors (tomatoes, peppers, eggplant - 6 weeks before your last frost, which usually occurs around May 30th; squash, cukes, melons can be started about a month before that date. Be prepared to cover your plants if frost is expected. Other crops such as lettuce, carrots, corn, beans, etc. should be sown directly in the garden - wait til the soil warms in June before planting your corn & beans. Peas are very hardy, and can be planted in April, or whenever the soil is thawed and drained of winter moisture. There are other ways to "extend the season", such as placing polyester garden fabric over garden beds - these trap warmth and createa barrier against insects. Hope this is enough to get you started - visit us again if you have more questions! |
