Nature and Gardening

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All things green, outdoors, and nature-y. Whether it's animals in their natural habitat, hiking trails and mountains, or planting a little garden for yourself (and everything in between), you can talk about it here.

See also our Environment community, which is focused on weather, climate, climate change, and stuff like that.

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remington@beehaw.org

Seeking advice for vegetable gardening (beehaw.org)

submitted 4 months ago by remington@beehaw.org to c/greenspace@beehaw.org

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So far I've planted fruit-bearing trees and other perennials over the past 12 years living in rural Maine. I have zero experience with annual vegetable gardening. My, initial, plan is to start with one vegetable next spring/summer. I've chosen cucumbers since it is the most popular amongst my immediate family members (wife and two boys).

The motivation behind this is NOT for sustenance. It is to add an enjoyable hobby for my self. In the off chance that it is NOT enjoyable, then I haven't invested too much time, effort and money. If I end up enjoying it (which I believe I will), then starting small would be less overwhelming and conducive to a gradual learning experience. Henceforth, since this is not for personal sustenance, we have a local food bank that I could contribute to.

My initial idea is to start growing the cucumbers in a large plastic pot located in my back yard.

And that is how far I've gotten in the planning process.

Any and all advice is very welcome.

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[–] dandelion@lemmy.blahaj.zone 6 points 4 months ago (1 children)

I think cucumbers (and relatives like watermelon, squash, etc.) don't transplant well due to their sensitive roots, so if you grow them in a large plastic pot, don't expect to move them around or plant them in the ground later.

It sounds like you have a good approach to the gardening - most beginners take on too much and get overwhelmed. Starting small is really smart. Being clear and realistic about your goals is also a great sign.

Growing in the hotter south I always had trouble with cucumbers coming out too bitter, maybe due to the heat. I haven't grown them much since, but I have heard from others that cucumbers can be really productive if you give them the right place (needs enough sun, water, and space).

[–] remington@beehaw.org 3 points 4 months ago (1 children)

Thanks for the feedback.

[–] dandelion@lemmy.blahaj.zone 2 points 4 months ago (1 children)

Of course - can't wait to hear how your gardening experiences go, please share updates and photos!

[–] remington@beehaw.org 2 points 4 months ago

please share updates and photos!

I will!