Tonight, Greg and Sheila talk about all things herbs and fruit orchards!! Expand your food supply!

Start Small, Start Simple

Herbs

When growing outside, consider those herbs that are hardy and can handle changing of seasons/cold weather. Lavender and Rosemary. Consider how large they will grow when planting. If planting in a raised bed, keep larger plants to the back and small plants in the front. This will make harvesting easier. Don't plant herbs together that need different amounts of sunlight and water.

You'll do well planting tarragon and basil together. They love full sun and like a bit of extra water. Put your rosemary, sage, and thyme together because they prefer drier and sandier soil.

Cool Season Herbs

Cilantro

Chives

Dill

Parsley

Warm Season Herbs

Sage

Thyme

Oregano

Mint

Bay Leaves

Fruit Orchards

Augment your supply of homegrown food beyond the traditional food garden. Choose those that bear fruit at different times of the year to further extend your harvest. Preserve homegrown fruit for jams. You can dry, freeze and ferment your fruits, as well. Greg and Sheila grow fig trees, grapes, blackberries, blueberries, mulberries, peaches, apples, lemons, limes, oranges, and strawberries!

Knowing your soil is vital. There are two important factors in determining if a particular tree or plant will grow well in your part of the country. First, you need to live within the recommended USDA Hardiness Zone and if you're planting a fruit or nut tree, you must determine if your area receives enough annual "chill hours".

Where To Plant

Look for an open spot in the yard. Fruit trees generally need at least six hours of full sunlight in order to grow strong and produce healthy fruit. Don't plant the trees where they will be shaded by your house or taller trees. Limes are excellent for those with limited space, they can be planted in larger containers and can be brought indoors for protection.

Where to Buy

Local nursery (carry trees that will grow well in your area), big-box centers, or online. Remember - bigger isn't always better, look for bulging tight pots, signs of pest or disease issues, good shape, structure, and generally healthy-looking plants.

Shop Stark Brothers Fruit Trees - use coupon code ROWBYROW10 to receive a 10% off discount on your order.

Products of the Week:

Herb Collection

Kitchen Garden Light Kit

Watch the Complete Show on YouTube Below:

https://youtu.be/g7lmB0jd1Vk