COOPERATIVE KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY FACT SHEET
Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program 2020
Tips and Tricks for Starting a Backyard Garden
Dr. Leigh Whittinghill, Assistant Professor of Urban Agriculture
Selecting a Garden Site
Pick a site convenient for you to maintain.
Some wind is good but avoid areas exposed to strong wind.
Be mindful of possible pollution sources and avoid them.
Your Garden will need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight a day.
Look for areas where plants already do well- this can indicate high organic matter content and high nutrient content.
Avoid spots where water puddles during and after rain, such as low spots at the bottom of a hill.
Avoid clay soils and add organic matter to sandy soils.
Plant away from trees, they will compete with your vegetables.
Planning the Garden
Start small- you can always expand later.
Be mindful of who will be using the garden.
Select crops you use often.
Know your crops:
When to plant and harvest
How to plant
Consider disease resistant varieties and varieties that grow well in your area
Consider including:
Plants that attract pollinators and other beneficial insects.
-A rotation to reduce pest problems and increase fertility.