Do you find yourself daydreaming about that vegetable garden you have always wanted to plant? Perhaps it is a simple herb garden, or maybe your dreams involve lines of crops in the countryside (and chickens, of course!). Well, that country block may not be around the corner, but cooler weather certainly is! And that means it is the perfect time to start a garden.
What are the benefits of gardening in Autumn?
Well firstly, the air isn’t as warm so it is much more comfortable to be outdoors. But putting our comfort aside, what do the plants have to say? Most plants enjoy being established during this time, as they don’t have to battle the hot sun and humidity. Also, the ground and soil become more friable and moist, making planting much easier. Deciding on what vegetables to grow is another factor, which will depend on where you live. For example, wintertime in Brisbane is the perfect time to plant tomatoes, green leafys, radish, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, broccolini, carrots, basil, dill, parsley, and so much more.
What if my soil needs improving?
Compost is the answer (to almost everything garden-related). Autumn is another great time to set up a composting system or a few! There are many ways to compost, from worm farms, compost bin systems, or a pallet system. Composting allows you to reuse materials (such as food scraps and garden waste) to then create beautiful rich material that improves soil health and plant growth.
I am a new gardener, where do I begin?
You can begin anywhere you want! There are no right or wrongs in growing plants, just give it a go. Just like anything new, find yourself some great resources (such as books or videos) relevant to your dreams and begin reading and watching. Perhaps you have a friend willing to lend you a hand and give you some pointers.
Growing food in your own garden is a wonderful hobby and creative pastime. Not only does it teach us about the cycles of nature and the way that our food is grown, but it also grounds us and brings us back to the greater connection of living on this earth. In the wise words of Geoff Lawton, “You are what you eat, and if you don’t know what you eat, then you don’t know who you are. You have lost that connection.”
Why not delve into the world of growing food? You’ll be chomping on a delicious red and ripe tomato, or a crunchy orange carrot in no time!
