April is the perfect month to cultivate vegetables in pot or in the garden: with the air that smells of spring, the most generous sun and the earth that shakes the cold, it is almost spontaneous to look for a green corner where to start planting something.
When you think about Cultivation of vegetablesoften imagine a large vegetable garden in the countryside, with long ordered rows. But the reality is that even a small balcony, with some deep and well -exposed vase, can become a surprisingly productive corner. And April, among all the months of the year, seems to be made on purpose to kick off new crops. The rains are still frequent, it is true, but precisely this humidity promotes the rooting of the seedlings, which are thus found in a perfect environment to grow strong.
It is interesting to note that many vegetables, often considered “difficult”, are also very well in pots. Of course, you need a little care, but The result is surprising: a fragrant harvest, colorful and, above all, at hand.
The easiest vegetables to cultivate in April, between the pot and garden
Who has never thought of cultivating at least of basil In the kitchen? This aromatic plant, so typically Mediterranean, is one of the most loved and easiest vegetables to grow in pots. But it’s not the only one: April is also perfect for sowing lettuce, rocket, parsley e Reflorent strawberrieswhich give small satisfactions in a few days.
In the garden, however, even wider possibilities open. THE tomatoesfor example, can start being transplanted from the mid -month, as long as the climate is stable. Also green beans, zuchinis, celery e radicchi they find their ideal moment in these weeks. Some, like the Summer onionsare already in advance if transplanted in the previous months, but it is still possible to insert them in the garden for those who have left late.
For those who live in areas with mild climate, too citrus plants e aromatic More delicate such as thyme or marjoram can be successfully transplanted. One aspect not to be underestimated, then, is the depth of the vase: at least 30 cm for almost all species, because the roots have enough space to develop.
How to prepare the ground for healthy and vigorous vegetables
In pot or in the ground, a rule remains the same: the soil must be healthy and well drained. It is often believed that a handful of universal land is enough, but this is not the case. Before transplanting or sowing, weeds should be eliminated, riding the ground with a spade and enriched with organic fertilizer or humus. If you then want to give an extra push, there are slowly specific sale fertilizers for leaf or fruit vegetables.
An interesting detail concerns the sowing depth. In many cases it is wrong by planting the seeds too on the surface: the wind or rain can move them easily. The practical rule suggests interpreting the seeds to a depth equal to Two to three times their size. So: for the green beans you go to the 2-3 cm, for the lettuce it takes half a centimeter.
And the distance between plants? That also matters, and how. Too much proximity slows down growth, increases humidity and facilitates fungal diseases. Better to follow a few guidelines: 20 cm for rocket and basil, 40-60 cm for tomatoes, up to 70-80 cm for courgettes and pumpkins.
The advantages of cultivating in April and how to prevent problems
There are those who claim that April is the most “generous” month for those who cultivate. It will be for that light that lasts longer, or for the mild temperatures that do not stress young seedlings. The fact is that the Transplant in April It has at least three advantages: it promotes a more robust development, helps the plant to better resist the attacks of parasites and reduces the risk of thermal shocks.
And just talking about parasites and diseasesgood prevention is the best defense. I inspect the leaves regularly, avoid stagnation of water and remove the weeds are simple but very effective gestures. For those who want to use natural products, copper and soft soap are two classic allies against mushrooms and insects.
However, be careful not to overdo the watering. April rains are often sufficient for the vegetable garden in the ground. In pots, however, the water must be dosed more carefully: never make the soil dry out too much, but neither do you always keep it soaked.
Finally, a little advice that makes the difference: Place the vases in full sunat least six to eight hours a day. Even the most resistant vegetables, without light, weaken.
April is therefore the perfect time to leave, whether it’s a large garden or a small balcony. There is not a lot of space to enjoy the satisfaction of seeing something from nothing: just a little land, a few vases and the desire to dirty your hands is enough.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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