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Vegetable Gardening

First Time Gardener, questions...

15 years ago

I've planted my Very first garden. I started with some seeds, some seedlings. Overall, I planted beans (both), peas (seeds), lettuce (seeds), tomatoes (both), watermelon (seeds), peppers (seeds), scallions (seedlings), zucchini/squash (seeds), celery and strawberries (both seedlings). My seedlings seem to be doing ok (other than my beans), but the only seeds that have really sprouted are my lettuce. I planted a few weeks ago. My row of zucchini/squash and melons have nothing. Do I start over in these areas?

The map says I'm Zone 9. I'm in Southern California towards the desert area, but not quite there. We basically get no rain in the summer months. I'm watering twice per day for about 10-15 minutes.

The area is going to be almost full sun all day...I'm thinking that it may be too much?

Any advice, recommendations for a first-timer would be great. I've already put some "stuff" down to protect from snails and worms. I'm just looking for some advice, feedback, things to look for, etc.

Thanks!

Comments (4)

greenhouser2
15 years ago
It may not be cost effective to garden where you live. The cost of water alone will be a great expense. The more sun and heat, the more water your plants will demand. Something to think about.

Squash and melons usually germinate quickly in moist warm soil. Are you sure nothing it digging them up and eating the seeds?
jean001
15 years ago
Your county's University of California Extension Service office is likely to have good solid information for you that's pertinent to your region.
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grandpop1
15 years ago
At top of forum page, do a search using the quotes on "watering basics" and it will help with the watering. Twice a day for short duration is bad for most situations.
hanselmanfarms
15 years ago
Here's a hint I've heard alot. Put a can in the area that you are watering. You will need 1" of water per week, at least for my area. 10-15 minutes may not be enough "rain".
I have also been guilty of putting 2lt bottles of water, upside down without cap,into the ground next to the plant that I want to grow, If the plant needs water, it will pull water from the bottle.

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