According to the APHA (American Public Health Association) the definition of a sustainable food system is "...one that provides healthy food to meet current food needs while maintaining healthy ecosystems that can also provide food for generations to come with minimal negative impact to the environment."
There are several things to consider when starting a garden.
Timing
- The average planting guideline is the last spring frost date. Depending on what you are planting and where you live, this date may vary slightly, so check your local frost calendar. Most importantly, the soil needs to be workable, so it cannot be frozen.
Location
- Maximizing sun exposure is a critical factor in choosing the best location for your garden. This can be achieved by keeping the garden away from any buildings or trees. It is also important to plan the garden near a water source such as a sprinkler or spigot.
Preparation
- Planning makes a difference. Starting with a good base soil will directly affect the success of your garden. Remove any grass, sticks and rocks and add organic matter such as peat moss, old manure and dead leaves to supply nutrients. Also, after a heavy rain, observe the area you've chosen for your garden to be sure there is no water collecting, or you may need to fill in any low lying areas.
Maintenance
- A bountiful garden requires some love and attention. If you don't have time for regular weeding, consider using some mulch. Also, be sure your garden is getting sufficient water. Finally, pruning dead leaves, and thinning out overgrown foliage will allow the healthy leaves and fruit more of the nutrients and water they need.
Harvesting
- Picking the perfect vegetables or fruit will depend on your personal taste and intended use. Even if you are intending to use your harvest for canning and future use, the vegetables will still need to be picked at maturity. Here are sites with some basic harvesting guidelines for popular fruits and vegetables as well as a reference to begin canning. Harvest Times
, Preserving
If you are an inexperienced gardener, then consider starting small. Success will be the result of some trial and error until you are comfortable with your technique so do not be intimidated by the process.
Remember that if you are tight on space, there are a variety of planters, window boxes or counter-top potting systems that can grow bountiful harvests. Finally, a little extra effort will provide you with a healthy alternative to processed foods, while saving you money and creating a sustainable food source.
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Sources: APHA
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