Gauteng Smallholder April 2018 | Page 32

IN THE GARDEN manure when planted at this time of the planting. It's year. happy with So what can one plant in onions, April in Gauteng? leeks and Broad Beans: The seeds are celery, while sown singly 15-20 cm apart in African holes 5 cm deep. These wormwood beans are of upright habit and will repel can grow to a height of 1m, leaf-eating so they need support. worms. Calendulas do well with Lettuce and parsley planted together. Carrots: Soil beans, attracting beneficial texture is very important in holes and covered with about insects. Do not plant near producing smooth, well- onions, garlic, leeks, chives or 2 cm of soil. It grows well shaped roots - deeply with garlic, chives, onions, fennel. worked, sandy loams are lettuce, spinach and Swiss Beetroot: It prefers friable, ideal. They can be planted chard. rich soils with well- Broccoli: Like most brassicas, near peas, leeks, lettuce, decomposed organic matter. radish, onions and chives. Plant the seeds directly in the it needs a fair l y rich soil, so be generous with the compost or They also like sage, thyme bed 5-6 cm apart in shallow and parsley. Cabbages: They are easy to grow, but really thrive in soil that is rich in organic matter and retentive of moisture. Experiment with different varieties. Plant with beans, beetroot, celery, coriander and most other herbs, From page 29 30 www.sasmallholder.co.za particularly bergamot. Pelargonium leaves repel cabbage moths. However, do not plant rue near your cabbages. Cauliflowers: They are described as “gross feeders” so plenty of compost and mature manure will be necessary for them. April is a bit late to plant them, but try planting them in seed trays and then transplanting when they are established. Celery, beans, cabbage and onions are good companions, along with calendulas, sage and African wormwood. Celery: Once again, you will need to plant in seed trays and then transplant. Peaty, fibrous soil is good for celery. Plant it with cauliflower, cabbage, leeks, onions, garlic and beans. Chinese cabbage: It requires a well-improved and moisture-retaining soil. Plant it with celery, beets, onions, Continued on page 32