Winter Solstice
On 21 June it is the shortest day and the longest night – the deepest point of winter. From now on the days will get longer and the nights shorter as we start heading for the 2011 Spring season.
Although still cold, it is a very good time to start planning your herb and vegetable garden for the coming season – only a couple more weeks before the first buds will open with the new promise of growth and gardening.
Consider the following:
1. Only select the herbs and vegetables that you will use. The most versatile and rewarding herbs are thyme, parsley, rosemary, sage, basil, oregano, chives, coriander, rocket and mint. On the vegetable side grow some spinach, green peppers, brinjals, lettuce, cabbage, radish, beetroot and carrots.
2. Select a growing area that receives a minimum of four hours direct sunlight during the day. Read more about growing healthy herbs.
Once a month, plant a small batch of a new vegetable or herb you have not tried before. This will give you the opportunity to see if you can successfully grow the plants and if you actually use them in your kitchen. Once you are happy with the results then plan a bigger crop. Good ideas include pak choi and other oriental vegetables, bloody sorrel, Vietnamese coriander, artichokes, French tarragon , asparagus and fennel.
