Harvest to Table

The secret to getting a good strawberry harvest in hot summer climates—where daytime temperatures are consistently greater than 85°F–is to have strawberries ready for picking in mid-winter, not in late spring or early summer as in cooler summer regions. Early spring is the traditional time to set out strawberries but where summers are hot, a [...]

Vegetable crops need 1 inch of water each week–as a general rule of thumb; this is the equivalent of about ½ gallon of water or slightly more per square foot of garden. Some crops need more water, and some need less. The best vegetable crop production comes from consistent watering. It is important to avoid [...]

Vegetables are sensitive to hot temperatures–just as they are sensitive to cold temperatures. Each vegetable crop grows best in its own range of temperatures. The optimal temperature range for peppers and eggplants, for example, is 70° to 85°F; pollination will not occur if the night temperature falls below 55°F, and blossoms may fall if the [...]

Mulch reduces evaporation from the soil surface, moderates soil temperature, and insulates roots from summer heat (and winter cold). Mulch suppresses weeds, reduces soil compaction, prevents erosion, and adds organic matter to the soil. Mulch is any material that protects the soil surface and allows air and water through. Organic mulches–mulches derived from plant materials–not [...]

Vegetable crops can become stressed in hot weather if not sufficiently watered. Vegetables are not drought resistant. Most vegetable crops require one inch or more of water each week during the growing season. This is the equivalent of about ¾ of a gallon of water. In hot, dry conditions vegetables may demand more water. Insufficient [...]