15 Vegetables to Grow in New England During Spring

Spring is the perfect time to start planning your backyard garden, and there are plenty of delicious vegetables that can be grown in New England during this season. Here are 15 options to consider:

• Arugula: This leafy green is easy to grow and adds a spicy kick to salads and sandwiches.
• Asparagus: Asparagus takes a few years to mature, but it’s worth the wait. Plant crowns in well-draining soil and provide plenty of sunlight.
• Beets: Beets are a cool-season vegetable that can be grown from seeds or seedlings. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.
• Carrots: Carrots are a popular choice for backyard gardens, and they can be grown from seeds directly in the ground. They prefer well-draining, loose soil and should be watered regularly.
• Cabbage: Cabbage is a hardy vegetable that can be grown from seeds or seedlings. It prefers cool weather and well-draining soil.
• Kale: Kale is a nutritious leafy green that is easy to grow and can withstand cool temperatures. It can be grown from seeds or seedlings and prefers well-draining soil.
• Lettuce: Lettuce is a cool-season vegetable that can be grown from seeds or seedlings. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.
• Peas: Peas are a cool-season vegetable that can be grown from seeds directly in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.
• Radishes: Radishes are a fast-growing root vegetable that can be grown from seeds directly in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.
• Spinach: Spinach is a nutritious leafy green that can be grown from seeds or seedlings. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.
• Swiss chard: Swiss chard is a leafy green that is easy to grow and can withstand cool temperatures. It can be grown from seeds or seedlings and prefers well-draining soil.
• Turnips: Turnips are a root vegetable that can be grown from seeds directly in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.
• Radicchio: Radicchio is a type of chicory that adds a bit of bitterness to salads and sandwiches. It can be grown from seeds or seedlings and prefers well-draining soil.
• Rhubarb: Rhubarb is a perennial plant that takes a few years to mature, but it’s worth the wait. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.
• Scallions: Scallions, also known as green onions, are a fast-growing vegetable that can be grown from seeds or seedlings. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly.

With these 15 vegetables, you’ll have a variety of tasty options to choose from for your spring backyard garden. Happy planting!

Backyard Farming is a Popular Trend

 

Backyard farming is a popular trend that allows individuals to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs right in their own backyard. Not only is backyard farming a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also save you money on your grocery bill and provide you with fresher, healthier produce. In this article, we will explore the benefits of backyard farming and provide tips on how to get started.

One of the main benefits of backyard farming is the ability to have control over the food you eat. When you grow your own produce, you know exactly where it came from and how it was grown. This can be especially important for individuals who are concerned about the use of pesticides and other chemicals in conventional agriculture. By growing your own food, you can choose to use organic methods and avoid potentially harmful additives.

In addition to the health benefits, backyard farming can also be a cost-effective way to obtain fresh produce. The cost of fresh produce can add up quickly at the grocery store, but by growing your own, you can save money and have a constant supply of fresh fruits and vegetables.

So, how do you get started with backyard farming? The first step is to choose a suitable location in your backyard. Make sure the area gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. It’s also a good idea to consider the size and layout of the space, as well as any potential challenges such as pests or wildlife.

Next, decide what you want to grow. Consider your personal preferences and the climate in your region. Some popular options for backyard farming include tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and leafy greens.

Once you’ve chosen your location and what you want to grow, it’s time to start preparing the soil. This may involve removing weeds, adding compost, and adjusting the pH level. After the soil is prepared, you can begin planting your seeds or seedlings.

Watering and fertilizing your plants is important to ensure they grow properly. Pay attention to the specific needs of each plant, as some may require more or less water and nutrients.

Pest control is also an important aspect of backyard farming. There are many natural methods you can use to keep pests at bay, such as introducing beneficial insects and using traps or barriers.

Backyard farming can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby, and it’s a great way to enjoy fresher, healthier produce. With some planning and effort, you can have a thriving backyard farm in no time.

The History and Uses of Jute

 We all have used Jute in the Garden, but Jute has a long history and endless uses.

The Use History of Jute

Jute is a strong, durable, and versatile natural fiber that has been used for centuries for a wide range of purposes. It is derived from the stem and outer skin of the jute plant, which is native to the tropical regions of South Asia. The fibers of the jute plant are known for their strength, softness, and luster, making them ideal for a variety of applications.

History of Jute

Jute has been cultivated and used for centuries in the regions where it is native. The ancient Egyptians are believed to have used jute for making rope and sandals, and it was also used by the Greeks and Romans for similar purposes. Jute was introduced to Europe in the 18th century, where it quickly became a popular material for making sacks and bags for carrying and storing grains and other dry goods. It was also used for making carpets and rugs, and for paper production.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, jute became an important industrial fiber, particularly in the production of textiles. It was used for making a variety of products, including burlap, hessian, and twine. Jute was also used for making carpets, upholstery, and other home furnishings. The demand for jute continued to grow in the 20th century, and it became one of the most important natural fibers in the world.

100 Uses for Jute

Jute is a strong, durable, and versatile natural fiber that has a wide range of uses. It is often used in the production of textiles, such as burlap, hessian, and twine, but it has many other applications as well. Here are 100 uses for jute:

1. Sacks and bags for carrying and storing grains, seeds, and other dry goods
2. Carpeting and floor covering
3. Upholstery for furniture
4. Rope and twine for tying, binding, and securing loads
5. Mats and rugs
6. Curtains and blinds
7. Shoes and sandals
8. Baskets and baskets for carrying and storing goods
9. Paper and cardboard production
10. Construction and building materials
11. Erosion control blankets
12. Wedding and party decorations
13. Gift wrapping and packaging
14. Toy production
15. Musical instrument strings
16. Fishing nets and gear
17. Agricultural mulch and weed control
18. Gardening twine and plant ties
19. Landscaping and erosion control
20. Seedlings and plant protection
21. Reusable shopping bags
22. Geotextiles and erosion control fabrics
23. Protective wrapping for plants and trees
24. Animal bedding and feed bags
25. Soil erosion control
26. Burlap coffee bags
27. Protective covering for plants and trees in winter
28. Drapery and upholstery lining
29. Cattle feed bags
30. Protective covering for plants during transport
31. Carrier bags and sacks
32. Protective wrapping for furniture and other household items
33. Horse feed bags
34. Protective covering for plants and trees during construction
35. Silt fences for erosion control
36. Protective wrapping for vehicles and machinery
37. Silt containment and erosion control
38. Protective covering for plants and trees during landscaping
39. Canvas and tarps
40. Protective wrapping for boat covers and mooring
41. Burlap sacks for potatoes and other vegetables
42. Protective covering for plants and trees during storage
43. Grain storage bags
44. Protective wrapping for furniture during moving
45. Animal feed bags
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The Benefits of Raised-Bed Gardening

Raised-bed gardening is a popular and effective way to grow a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. This gardening technique involves creating a raised bed, usually made of wood, stone, or brick, and filling it with a mixture of soil and compost. Raised beds have several benefits over traditional in-ground gardening, including improved drainage, easier access and maintenance, and the ability to control the quality of the soil.

Improved Drainage

One of the key benefits of raised-bed gardening is improved drainage. Because the bed is raised off the ground, excess water is able to drain away from the roots of the plants, preventing them from becoming waterlogged. This is particularly important in areas with heavy clay soil or poor drainage, as plants in these conditions are prone to root rot and other diseases. By creating a raised bed, gardeners can improve the drainage of the soil and create a healthier environment for their plants.

Easier Access and Maintenance

Raised beds are also easier to access and maintain than traditional in-ground gardens. Because the bed is raised, it's easier for gardeners to reach all areas of the bed without having to bend over or kneel on the ground. This can be especially beneficial for gardeners with mobility issues or back pain. Additionally, because the bed is contained, it's easier to control weeds, pests, and other garden problems. Gardeners can simply add mulch or other materials to the surface of the bed to help suppress weeds and keep the soil moist.

Control of Soil Quality

One of the major benefits of raised-bed gardening is the ability to control the quality of the soil. When creating a raised bed, gardeners have the opportunity to mix their own soil and compost, allowing them to tailor the soil to the specific needs of their plants. This can be especially beneficial in areas with poor soil quality or heavy clay soil, as it allows gardeners to create a more balanced and nutritious growing environment for their plants.

Types of Raised Beds

There are several types of raised beds to choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are a few options to consider:

• Wooden raised beds are a popular choice for many gardeners. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to build, and can be created in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, wood can rot over time and may need to be replaced every few years. It's also important to use a rot-resistant wood, such as cedar or redwood, to ensure the longevity of the bed.
• Stone raised beds are a more permanent option, as they are built to last. They can be constructed with a variety of materials, including brick, concrete, or natural stone. Stone raised beds are more expensive and difficult to build than wooden beds, but they are extremely durable and require little maintenance. They are also a good option for gardeners who want a more formal or decorative look in their garden.
• Elevated planters are a good option for gardeners with

The Benefits of Companion Planting Vegetables With Chart

 

The Benefits of Companion Planting Vegetables

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different types of vegetables in close proximity to one another in order to benefit their growth and productivity. This method can help to naturally deter pests, improve soil health, and maximize the use of space in the garden.

Creating a Balanced Ecosystem

One of the key benefits of companion planting is that it allows for the creation of a diverse and balanced ecosystem within the garden. Different vegetables have different nutritional requirements and can help to enrich the soil for their companion plants. For example, legumes such as beans and peas have the ability to fix nitrogen from the air and add it to the soil, making it more fertile for other plants.

Natural Pest Control

Another benefit of companion planting is that it can help to naturally deter pests. Some vegetables emit chemicals that repel certain pests, while others attract beneficial insects that can help to control pest populations. For example, planting basil near tomatoes can help to repel hornworms, while planting marigolds near vegetables can help to deter nematodes.

Maximizing Space

In addition to these benefits, companion planting can also help to maximize the use of space in the garden. By planting taller and climbing plants alongside shorter plants, gardeners can make the most of their vertical space and increase the overall productivity of their garden.

Examples of Companion Planting Combinations

So, what are some good combinations for companion planting vegetables? Here are a few examples to get you started:

• Planting tomatoes and basil together can help to improve the flavor and growth of both plants. Basil can also help to deter pests such as hornworms and flies.
• Planting beans and corn together can create a mutually beneficial relationship. The beans can fix nitrogen in the soil, which can be used by the corn, and the corn can provide support for the beans to climb.
• Planting carrots and lettuce together can help to deter carrot flies, which are attracted to the scent of carrots. Lettuce has a mild scent and can help to mask the smell of the carrots, helping to keep pests at bay.
• Planting onions and tomatoes together can help to deter pests such as slugs and aphids. Onions emit a chemical that can help to repel these pests, making them less likely to infest the tomato plants.

As with any gardening technique, it's important to do your research and experiment to see what works best in your specific location and climate. The above combinations are just a starting point and you may find that different vegetables work well together in your garden.

Conclusion

Overall, companion planting is a simple and effective way to improve the health and productivity of your vegetable garden. By creating a diverse and balanced ecosystem, you can naturally deter pests, improve soil health, and maximize the use of space in your garden. So why not give it a try and see what works best for you?

Vegetable	Good Companions	Bad Companions
Asparagus	Tomatoes, parsley, basil	Onion, garlic
Beans	Carrots, cucumbers, potatoes, squash	Onions, garlic, fennel
Beets	Bush beans, lettuce, onions, kohlrabi	Pole beans
Cabbage	Beets, onions, potatoes, tomatoes	Strawberries
Carrots	Lettuce, onions, peas, tomatoes	Dill
Corn	Beans, peas, pumpkins, squash	Tomatoes
Cucumbers	Beans, peas, radishes, sunflowers	Aromatic herbs
Eggplant	Beans, peas, peppers, tomatoes	Potato
Lettuce	Carrots, radishes, strawberries	Brussels sprouts
Onions	Beets, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes	Peas, beans
Peas	Carrots, corn, cucumbers, radishes	Onions, garlic
Peppers	Eggplant, tomatoes	Basil
Potatoes	Beans, corn, peas, squash	Eggplant
Squash	Corn, beans, peas, radishes	Potatoes
Tomatoes	Asparagus, carrots

25 Winter Tasks to Prepare Your Vegetable Garden for a Successful Growing Season

Winter can be a tough time for gardens, with cold temperatures and short days making it difficult for plants to thrive. But with a little bit of preparation, you can ensure that your garden is ready to bounce back when spring rolls around. Here are some essential tasks for preparing your garden for winter:

• Clean up any remaining plant debris from the previous growing season.
• Test your soil pH and nutrient levels, and apply any necessary amendments.
• Prune dead or diseased branches from fruit trees and bushes.
• Repair or replace any damaged fencing or trellising.
• Clean and sharpen garden tools.
• Compost any remaining leaves, grass clippings, and garden waste.
• Plan out your garden layout and determine which vegetables you want to plant.
• Order seedlings or seeds for your desired vegetables.
• Rotate the location of your vegetable beds to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases.
• Plant cover crops, such as clover or legumes, to add organic matter and nutrients back into the soil.
• Mulch around trees and shrubs to protect their roots from the cold.
• Insulate outdoor pipes and sprinkler systems to prevent them from freezing.
• Store any tender plants, such as tropicals or succulents, in a sheltered location for the winter.
• Check for any pests or diseases that may have overwintered in your garden and take appropriate measures to control them.
• Build or repair cold frames or other protective structures for your garden.
• Install row covers or other protective measures to keep frost and cold winds off of your plants.
• Stockpile wood or other fuel for heating any greenhouses or other sheltered growing spaces.
• Check your irrigation system and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.
• Consider planting cold-hardy vegetables, such as kale, Brussels sprouts, and root vegetables, in your garden.
• Set up a system for collecting and conserving rainwater for use in the garden.
• Determine what kind of fertilizers and other amendments you will need for the upcoming growing season.
• Research and select any new plant varieties that you would like to try in your garden.
• Plan out your succession planting schedule to ensure a continuous supply of fresh vegetables throughout the growing season.
• Set up a system for composting kitchen and garden waste to use as a natural fertilizer.
• Make any necessary repairs or upgrades to your garden structures, such as sheds, greenhouses, or raised beds.

Harnesting Wind Power At Any Business

Turbines are showing up all over. This one is located at Pecks Boats in Marstons Mill MA on Cape Cod.

Most of my friends haven't even noticed this home made energy system. It blends in with the sky doesn't it.

I'm on a quest to find some kind of wind or solar power for my home.

Cape Cod could become a leader in wind technology, but as in most cases people protest anything. Cape Wind has been trying to build a wind farm for years of Cape Cod. The only people who are complaining are those who have houses on the water. These people obviously don't need to worry about there electric bills.

We are behind Cape Wind building a wind farm so long as middle class people get some kind of benefit