Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

The community is invited to learn how to plant and grow a vegetable garden by presenter Horticulture Kerry Heafner of the LSU Ag Center at Carver-McDonald Branch Library, 2941 Renwick St. Monroe, LA 71201, Thursday, June 15, 2023, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM; contact Branch Manager Joyce Powell, 318-327-1477, for more information.

Vegetable gardening is a wonderful activity that brings joy and peace to the mind, while also nurturing and beautifying the environment.

A home vegetable garden is easy to start and doesn't require as much effort as one might think to keep it growing strong. Following a few simple steps will ensure you're enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time. Picking a good location for your garden is absolutely the key.

As a beginner, start by choosing easy vegetables that are also productive. Every region has a different planting time based mainly on the weather, and every vegetable has its temperature preferences.

The basics of starting or planting a vegetable garden can be achieved in six simple steps: planning, site selection, soil preparation, planting your seeds, maintaining your garden, and harvesting.

Remember: It's better to be proud of a small garden than be frustrated by a big one! One of the most common errors that beginners make is planting too much too soon-way more than anybody could ever eat or want! The best part is homegrown food simply tastes better than anything you can buy at the store.