When it comes to gardening, one of the best things I've learned is to change where I plant my crops each season.
This practice helps the soil stay healthy, and it also keeps pests and diseases away that might build up over time. Here are some great plants to rotate throughout the year:
Spring Season
- Leafy Greens: Start with plants like kale, spinach, and lettuce. They grow best in cooler weather and can be planted early.
- Root Vegetables: After harvesting the leafy greens, you can plant carrots, radishes, and beets. These plants enjoy the nutrients left in the soil from the leafy greens.
Summer Season
- Tomatoes: Once spring crops are done, I love to plant tomatoes. They need a lot of sunlight and do well with the nitrogen left in the soil from the previous plants.
- Cucumbers: These have different nutrient needs, which helps balance the soil after growing heavier plants like tomatoes.
Fall Season
- Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are great for this time. They can handle the cooler temperatures and grow well after heavy feeders like tomatoes.
- Cover Crops: If you’ve finished for the season, think about planting clover or vetch. These plants add nitrogen back into the soil during winter.
Winter Season
- Garlic: Garlic is a great choice for winter planting. It’ll be ready to harvest next summer.
- Perennials: Consider adding herbs like thyme and sage. These plants come back every year, giving your garden flavor and strength.
Tips for Crop Rotation:
- Follow the Three Sisters Plan: In one spot, try planting corn, beans, and squash together. They help each other grow by sharing nutrients and space.
- Think About Plant Families: Rotate your crops by their plant families. Don’t plant brassicas after other brassicas, or nightshades after other nightshades in the same place.
By sticking to a rotation schedule, you’ll keep your garden healthy and enjoy a wide variety of crops all year long! Happy gardening!