MARKtoe! SEPTEMBER 2023 Uitgawe 108 | Page 94

GARDEN ZONE

tomatoes in grow tunnels , with bay , saffron and fennel grown in the open air . Perhaps you are focusing on only one type of herb or spice , and so can put all your energy into getting the soil and environment perfect for that one type of plant .

You may want to consider hydroponics , using vertical growing . This is a particularly good option if you have limited space , as growing vertically in this way allows you to really maximise the space you have . It is also an environmentallyfriendly and sustainable way to grow , and allows you more control over your produce . The Netherlands is probably the best example of how successful hydroponics can be . The country is only a fraction of the size of the USA , but is one of the top five exporters of fruit and vegetables globally , and most of those are grown hydroponically .

Hydroponic systems may be more expensive to set up initially , but if used correctly , can increase your quality and yield , thereby increasing your profits . During your planning phase , you could watch videos , read articles and attend workshops to learn more about hydroponic growing before making your decision .

If you prefer to grow the “ old fashioned ” way , grow tunnels are a great option , as they allow you more control over the environment , and offer more protection to your delicate plants .

Fertilisers and feed

Whatever you decide to grow , you will need to create the ideal environment , whether using a hydroponic system , growing in raised beds in a tunnel , or growing directly in the ground . While certain similar herbs will grow well in the same soil , some herbs and spices will have specific requirements , for instance cinnamon trees do well in acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 - 5.5 , so will appreciate plenty of spagnum peat moss , while fennel prefers alkaline soil with a pH of between 6.3 and 8.3 and will benefit from agricultural lime added to the

PASELLA SAAD BY JOU VOEDINGSMAAT

Dit is maklik om u eie groente-en kruietuintjie aan te plant , maar met die regte voeding is dit ʼn plesier om die plantjies te sien floreer .
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Slegs beskikbaar terwyl voorrade hou .
94 MARKtoe ! September 2023