Backyard Farming the Natural Way

In my prior post, I mentioned moving to my new property about 1 month ago.  I have 1.75 acres and have a prime gardening plot that is about 45′ x 55′.  However, it will be until the spring before it is prepared for planting (with a lot of work!). In the meantime, I wanted to put in some winter vegetables and herbs, so I used the plain 2×6′s that were found behind the property and made some 4′x4′ beds coming off of the new paver patio (which I just installed). You can see the hot composting bin off the distance which I discussed in my last post.

When I put the finishing touches on these beds, I will be planting greens, lettuces, and herbs in them. Raised beds can offer the advantage of weed control and helping to warm the soil in the winter months (they also look cool).  However, if you have to buy the lumber and all the soil involved, the price can be expensive.  As I mentioned previously, I have a challenge dodging the shadows from some large oak trees, but placing these just off my patio gets them about 5 hours of sun daily, and also the convenience of being close to the kitchen. They are also right next to a bird feeder and bird bath which might help with insect control!

Stay tuned as I am going to be featuring all the fruit trees which I have acquired and have/will be planting on my property.  Geez, I need to clone a few of me to get all this work done.