Getting Started with Container Gardening

Almost all vegetables can be started in a container and transplanted, or moved, into your garden plot later. Start seeds in early spring to move to your plot in the summer. Your container can be anything from a 5 gallon bucket to a recycled milk jug, just remember to disinfect with a bleach solution, 1/4 cup bleach per 1 quart of room temperature water, and add a drainage hole if the container does not already have one.

Try planting one seedling per container to start out. Below are some beginner friendly plants to grow:

• Leafy greens (Arugula, kale, spinach, and lettuce)
• Herbs
• Radishes
• Carrots
• Turnips
• Onions
• Squash
• Tomatoes
• Beans
• Beets

Preparing your Soil

• Extension maintains soil in off-season with cover crop.
• Each Plot is tilled in fall and spring as weather conditions allow.

Volunteers who are willing to do some finer tilling in your plots when they are dry enough.
Tom Lewis: 920-979-3810

Planning and Planting your Plot

• Plant in rows and be sure to leave a few feet of space in between for walking paths.
• Each plant is different and has different needs.
• Check the back of your seed packet for details about how much space each plant needs and how deep to plant them.
• A good general rule is plant seeds 1-2 times their smallest diameter deep.
• Place seeds on the soil and lightly cover with soil. Be careful not to pack the soil down.
• Water with a mist or light stream to not move seeds.
• Seeds should be kept moist until they germinate. If no rain, water daily until the seed sprouts.
• Transplants should be watered after placed. Water every other day until established.
• Allow soil to dry in between watering.

Click the link below for a detailed planting schedule in Southeastern Wisconsin:

https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/globalassets/uw-extension/horticulture/vegetable-garden-planting-schedule.pdf

Mulching and Weed Control

• Plan to weed frequently for the first few weeks after you plant. Pull weeds early to limit their spread.
• Mulching your plot can help prevent and control weeds.
• Cover any unplanted areas of your garden with mulch to smother weeds.
• There are many ways to mulch. Common ways include:
  • Newspaper, about 6 sheets thick.
  • Plain brown corrugated cardboard.
  • Straw, leaves, grass clippings, or pine needles.