“Roundup” Pesticide is a Poison

Roundup pesticide (glyphosate sold by Bayer) is dangerous poison to people, plants, soil and animals. This post covers both the dangers and the steps needed to remediate. What are all the ways it poisons human bodies – adults and children? How can glyphosate be removed from a residential yard? Does it depend on how much was applied? How long should a homeowner wait to grow food in a yard sprayed with glyphosate?.

Glyphosate Poisons Human Bodies

Functional medicine practitioners, including Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Zach Bush, have highlighted several ways glyphosate can be harmful to humans:

1. Gut Health Disruption: Glyphosate acts as an antibiotic, killing beneficial gut bacteria and leading to dysbiosis. This imbalance can contribute to a host of gastrointestinal issues, including leaky gut syndrome.

2. Nutrient Deficiency: Glyphosate chelates essential minerals, making them unavailable to the body. This can result in deficiencies in nutrients like magnesium, iron, and manganese, which are crucial for various bodily functions.

3. Endocrine Disruption: Glyphosate has been shown to interfere with the endocrine system, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and related health issues such as thyroid disorders and reproductive problems.

4. Toxicity to Organs: Studies suggest that glyphosate can be toxic to the liver and kidneys, potentially leading to organ damage over time.

5. Neurological Effects: There is evidence linking glyphosate exposure to neurological issues, including an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

6. Carcinogenic Potential: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans," indicating a potential risk of cancer, particularly Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

7. Immune System Suppression: Glyphosate may weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases.

Removal of Glyphosate from a Residential Yard

Removing glyphosate from a residential yard involves several steps:

1. Cease Use of Glyphosate: Immediately stop using glyphosate-based products.

2. Soil Testing: Conduct soil tests to determine the level of glyphosate contamination.

3. Soil Amendments: Introduce organic matter and soil amendments to promote microbial activity that can help break down glyphosate. Compost and humic acids are particularly effective.

4. Phytoremediation: Planting certain species of plants known to absorb and break down glyphosate can be beneficial. Examples include clover, alfalfa, and other legumes.

5. Bioaugmentation: Applying microbial inoculants can enhance the breakdown of glyphosate in the soil.

Application Amount

The extent of contamination and the remediation process depends on the amount and frequency of glyphosate application. Heavier and more frequent applications will result in higher contamination levels, requiring more intensive remediation efforts.

Waiting Period Before Growing Food

The waiting period before growing food in a yard that has been sprayed with glyphosate can vary:

• Minimal Contamination: For yards with minimal glyphosate use, a waiting period of at least six months to one year is generally recommended.

• Moderate to Heavy Contamination: For more heavily contaminated soils, waiting periods can extend up to two years or more, depending on the effectiveness of the remediation efforts.

Opinions of Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Zach Bush

Dr. Mark Hyman emphasizes the importance of avoiding glyphosate due to its numerous health risks, particularly its impact on gut health and its potential to contribute to chronic diseases through nutrient deficiencies and inflammation.

Dr. Zach Bush highlights the broader ecological impact of glyphosate, stressing its role in soil degradation and its far-reaching effects on the environment. He advocates for regenerative agricultural practices to restore soil health and reduce dependence on harmful chemicals like glyphosate.

Glyphosate Removal Experts?

Yes, there are professionals and organizations that specialize in glyphosate removal and soil remediation. These experts can help assess contamination levels and implement strategies to detoxify the soil. Here are a few avenues to explore:

1. Environmental Consultants: These professionals specialize in assessing and mitigating soil contamination. They can provide tailored solutions for glyphosate removal based on specific site conditions.

2. Soil Remediation Companies: There are companies that focus specifically on soil health and remediation. They use various techniques, including phytoremediation, bioaugmentation, and soil amendments to remove contaminants like glyphosate.

3. Organic Land Care Professionals: These specialists focus on organic and sustainable practices for lawn and garden care. They often have experience in transitioning chemically treated lawns to organic systems.

4. Agricultural Extension Services: Many universities and local agricultural extension services offer resources and expertise in soil health and contamination issues. They can provide guidance and sometimes testing services.

5. Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations dedicated to sustainable agriculture and environmental health often have resources and networks of professionals experienced in soil remediation.

6. Functional Medicine Practitioners: While not soil experts, functional medicine doctors like Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Zach Bush often have networks and resources for addressing environmental toxins. They may be able to refer you to specialists in glyphosate removal.

Steps to Find Glyphosate Removal Experts

1. Online Search: Use search terms like "glyphosate soil remediation experts," "environmental consultants for soil contamination," or "organic land care professionals."

2. Professional Associations: Organizations like the International Society of Environmental Forensics (ISEF) or the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) can be valuable resources.

3. Local University Extensions: Contact your local agricultural university extension service for recommendations.

4. Referrals: Ask for referrals from organic gardening communities, functional medicine practitioners, or local environmental groups.

Recommended Actions

• Consultation: Schedule consultations with a few experts to discuss your specific situation and get a range of opinions and solutions.

• Soil Testing: Conduct comprehensive soil tests to understand the extent of contamination and to inform the remediation strategy.

• Ongoing Monitoring: Implement an ongoing monitoring plan to assess the effectiveness of the remediation efforts and make adjustments as needed.

By engaging with experts, you can develop a thorough and effective plan to remove glyphosate from your yard and restore soil health.

“Grow Your Own Food” blog posts

See the full list of our Grow Your Own Food blog posts. Each post is assigned ”tags” which are under the post title. If you need a quick answer to a gardening question give us a call or send a text to our customer support team – support[at]deep-roots-project.org AND 708-655-5299.

Deep Roots online store

See our online store for details about prices, ordering and delivery of raised beds, planter boxes, microbe-rich compost, worm castings, leaf mulch and more. We don’t sell traditional soil, since we use 100% compost as our growing medium. Our online store has 2 sections – (1) raised beds and planter boxes and (2) compost, worm castings, fertilizer.

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Tomato Growing Tips

You’re not alone on your “Grow Your Own” journey

Grow your own food advantages: We all know that the taste of any store-bought tomato (even organic ones) cannot compare to homegrown tomatoes. It is also great to be able to experiment with so many different varieties – each with its own unique flavor.

The Deep Roots innovative growing method is designed to make food gardening successful for beginners and all gardeners year after year. We accomplish this by following a new soil science that first supports the beneficial soil microbes. We don’t fill our raised beds with conventional soil and instead use 100% Microbe-Rich Compost. We use top quality “worm castings” (worm poop) instead of commercial organic fertilizers. The microbes in our compost and in our worm castings feed the plants.

Below are links to our growing method.:

Plant tomato seeds or seedlings?

Buy or grow seedlings (transplants). Most new gardeners prefer to buy young starter plants called “seedlings” or ”transplants.” Advanced gardeners grow their own seedlings from seeds.

Beginner gardeners in Chicago area (climate zone 6a) should plant seedlings no earlier than mid May to avoid cold nights. Some neighborhoods in Chicago are warmed by the “lake effect” (climate zone 6b) and can plant in early May.

Tips for buying seedlings (transplants): Always buy seedlings immediately after they are delivered to the store. Don’t buy seedlings with yellowing leaves. If you have tiny seedlings in very small pots and are not ready to plant yet, move them immediately to larger sterilized pots. Soak used pots in water with 10% bleach for 20 minutes and soak for 20 minutes in fresh water. Place the newly potted seedlings in a bright southern window or under grow lights.

Tomatoes are sensitive to temperature

Understanding the temperature tolerances of the vegetables you grow is crucial for their growth and productivity. By providing the optimal temperature conditions, you can ensure healthy plants and a bountiful harvest. Peppers and eggplants have similar sensitivities. Most tomato seedlings survive cold nights (temperatures between 40º and 50º). Severe damage occurs under 40º. Learn about season extension techniques to protect tomatoes from extreme cold and heat. See our blog post: Season Extension.

Cherry tomatoes are warm-season plants and prefer temperatures between 70°F to 80°F. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but don't grow well in temperatures below 50°F. If temperatures exceed 95°F, cherry tomato plants may drop their flowers and fruits.

Roma tomatoes are also warm-season plants and prefer temperatures between 70°F to 85°F. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but don't grow well in temperatures below 55°F. Like cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes may drop their flowers and fruits if temperatures exceed 95°F.

Heirloom tomatoes are also warm-season plants and prefer temperatures between 70°F to 85°F. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but don't grow well in temperatures below 55°F. If temperatures exceed 95°F, heirloom tomato plants may drop their flowers and fruits.

Spring temperatures are very unpredictable during climate change. Most Zone 6a and 6b experienced gardeners prefer to plant tomato seedlings within the official planting date (May 1-15). Experienced gardeners have some tricks to protect against unexpected later frosts. Be patient when planting tomatoes and other very cold-sensitive crops that should never be exposed to under 50º F. To be safe beginners should plant on May 18 a little later than the official last frost date.

How to plant tomato seedlings

Preparing the soil: If your bed is filled with our 100% compost and you have added 2” fresh compost after the previous growing season, just add 1 cup of worm casting to your hole. But, if your bed is filled with conventional soil, dig a bigger hole to make room for several cups of half-and-half compost and worm castings mixture. Another option if you are planting in conventional soil is to dig out the top 4 to 6 inches of the soil and replace it with our Microbe-Rich Compost.

Planting the seedling: Use biodiversity planting – only one or two tomatoes per bed – 2 feet apart to get air flow that prevents dampness that promotes fungi and blight. Fill the spaces on the edges and between the tomatoes with other plants.

Give your tomato seedling an amazing head start. Prune bottom leaves and plant deep. If it’s a large seedling prune the bottom leaves off and dig an extra deep hole. Plant the roots extra deep so a lot of stem is covered by soil. The hair on the buried stem will become roots and produce a healthier tomato plant. View this excellent tomato planting video – but remember we use top quality worm castings instead of traditional fertilizers.

Add mulch and water deeply, but don’t over water

Watering tips from Oak Park’s Tomato Lady (Lissa Dysart): “Don’t water very much, other than at the beginning to help them get settled in. I’m a tough-love gardener, so I don’t pamper them. Watering a little bit every day is a mistake, because you’re frequently only watering on the surface and because the water evaporates really quickly. If you need to water due to heat or new plants, try to water every other day or every several days, but water really deeply when you do. If there’s been no rain, I’ll water to keep a medium level of hydration on the plant, especially when they’ve set fruit, to avoid cracking. When it hasn’t rained for a while and the plant has fully formed fruit, the sudden influx of water from a rainstorm can cause the fruit to rapidly increase volume, and then crack, so I will give them a drink in a period of no water to avoid that issue. Generally speaking, the less you water your tomatoes, the denser the flavor, so I err on the side of less watering.” – Tomato Lady

Sunlight and temperatures

Tomatoes always want morning sun. The sooner the sun strikes their leaves in the morning, the faster the dew will evaporate and the healthier the plants will be. Choose the sunniest spot in your garden. Too much sun can be a problem to your tomatoes caused by intense, direct sunlight for extended periods during very hot weather. Historically this is not an issue in the Chicago area, but climate change has made intense, days-long extreme heat more common in our area.

Extreme heat is bad for tomatoes: Excessively hot temperatures - over 90 degrees consistently during the day and 75 degrees or higher overnight - stress tomato plants. Most tomatoes stop producing blossoms and fruit, and simply concentrate on surviving. The 2 Chicago heat waves in July 2022 shut down 12 hybrid tomato plants in the Deep Roots experimental garden in Oak Park, IL for the rest of the growing season. Protect tomato plants during high heat with shade cloth. View this excellent video about heat protection of crops.

Determinate OR indeterminate

Determinate and indeterminate tomatoes. Your plants are either determinate (meaning they will grow to a certain height, often about 3-5 feet tall, and then produce their fruit all at once), or they are indeterminate (they just keep on growing and producing fruit as they grow). They stop growing when cold weather hits.

Growing cherry tomatoes is easier. Most cherry tomatoes are indeterminate and have a large, sprawling growth habit that requires pruning and support. When space is limited, many gardeners choose determinate varieties as they grow in a more compact, bush-like shape. They ripen in small batches throughout the season. You usually don’t have to protect them from squirrels in the Chicago area. They don’t require as much careful pruning. Kids and adults love to eat them right off the plant.

Pruning tomatoes

Pruning helps maintain balance between vegetative (leaves and stems) and reproductive (flowers and fruits) growth, improves airflow to prevent disease, and can even help your plants produce larger fruit. As the plant grows, remove the shoots or "suckers" (see diagram below) which develop between the main stem and the leaves, up to the first flower/fruit. Above the first fruit cluster, let the shoots develop two leaves and then pinch off the tips.

Indeterminate and determinate tomatoes are pruned differently. The self-pruning gene causes determinate tomato plants to stop the growth of their shoots once blossoms form at their ends. On the other hand, indeterminate tomatoes, which lack the self-pruning gene, will simply flower blossoms along its shoots, and continue to grow throughout the appropriate season. Determinate tomatoes need no pruning other than removing all suckers below the first flower cluster because pruning won't affect their fruit size or plant vigor. If you do any pruning at all above the first flower cluster on determinate tomatoes, you'll only be throwing away potential fruit.

How to prune video we like is prune your tomato plants. See more pruning tips in the vertical growing section below.

Growing tomatoes vertically

Is growing vertically always the best option? Vertical growing is always needed when space is limited. The University of IL Agricultural Extension says: “Tomatoes can be grown successfully either on the ground or staked, but plants grown on the ground require less work, produce more per plant, and are less susceptible to blossom-end rot. The advantages of staking are cleaner fruits, no loss from soil rot or anthracnose and, sometimes, easier picking. If you grow tomatoes on the ground, mulching with clean fresh straw will reduce anthracnose and fruit rots, and help to keep the fruits clean. Also, the mulch will conserve moisture and control weeds.”

Trellis or staking: Most people grow indeterminate tomatoes which will need a trellis, staking, a tomato cage, or another way to keep the plant from collapsing. Most large determinate tomatoes need a cage or will need to be staked. There are many ways to trellis tomatoes. A wooden or metal frame with wire or netting grid attached secured to the raised bed is best. Traditional trellis designs assume you are growing all the tomatoes in one spot close together. BUT, we strongly recommend you put at least 2 feet or more between tomato plants or grow them in separate large containers.

Tomato cage: Since it’s very important to space the tomatoes 2 feet apart we suggest a tomato cage for each plant. Large tomato plants can topple over if their only support is a tomato cage. Before you plant your seedlings, secure your tomato cage with a sturdy 50-60 inch tall stake down the middle of the cage. Secure the main stem to the stake as it grows. Contact Deep Roots support if you want to borrow some of our extra large tomato cages stored at our Deep Roots garden in Oak Park, IL.

There are several methods of staking and pruning tomatoes.

Tips from University of IL Agricultural Extension website:

• Start early with the staking. Shortly after transplanting, drive a stake about 6 feet long and 1½ inches in diameter into the soil 8 to 10 inches deep and 3 inches away from each plant.

• Tie a string tightly around the stake and loosely around the plant. Tie a knot just below a branch so that the plant cannot slide down.

• When the plants are 12 to 15 inches high, remove all but one or two main stems and tie them loosely to the stake, using soft twine or cloth.

• As the plant grows, remove the shoots or "suckers" (see diagram above) which develop between the main stem and the leaves, up to the first fruit cluster.

• Above the first fruit cluster, let the shoots develop two leaves and then pinch off the tips.

• Tie the plant loosely to the stake every 10 to 12 inches.

Squirrel protection

There are several ways to deal with squirrels biting your tomatoes. They are interested in the juice mainly,

• Place heavy-duty deer netting, chicken wire or other wire fencing around the tomato plants to keep the squirrels from spreading diseases and ruining tomatoes. Make sure the netting does NOT touch the plants.

• Plant only cherry tomatoes since squirrels rarely bother them.

• Protect individual ripening fruits with a small brown paper lunch bag tied to the plant when the tomato turns from green to beige.

• Bring tomatoes indoors when they just start to ripen. Speed up the ripening process in a paper bag that includes several green tomatoes and an apple. Ethylene gas released by apples, bananas and tomatoes naturally ripen fruit. This is the preferred method used by many Deep Roots experienced gardeners.

How to harvest tomatoes

“Harvest the fruits when they are pink except during periods when the daily mean temperature is above 70° F. At such high temperatures pick the fruits just as they are turning color and keep them at 68° F. for further coloring. These fruits will be firmer and have better flavor than those ripened on the vine when temperatures are high. Fruits exposed to direct sunlight will reach a temperature 20 degrees higher than that of shaded fruits.

In the fall just before the first frost, pick the large green fruits as well as the riper fruits. Ripen these fruits at about 60° to 70° F. in the dark. By sorting them out every 2 or 3 days you will have a gradual supply for about a month.” – University of IL Agricultural Extension

Environmental Pest Management (EPM)

An integrated approach is key

Diseases in tomatoes can be greatly reduced by good cultural practices and carrying out a fungicide dust or spray program. EPM for organic food gardening is responsible environmental stewardship. EPM is modeled after the older Integrated Pest Management (IPM) that allowed use of toxic chemicals for extreme pest invasions.

Use the organic safe sprays we recommend in our EPM post (link below). We practice these EPM principles for all of your vegetables. Details are in our EPM post. Contact your local botanic garden information service OR state university agricultural extension for help identifying and treating pest problems.

Our Innovative Food Gardening Method

Learn more in our two recently revised blog posts.

Our online store

See our online store for details about prices, ordering and delivery of raised beds, compost, worm castings and more. Please contact our customer support team before placing an order online so we can assist you with the details and answer your gardening questions.

QUESTIONS? COMMENTS?

Contact us at (708) 655-5299 or support[at]deep-roots-project.org.

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Donations help us provide organic kitchen gardening education to individuals, organizations, and entire communities. Thank you in advance for contributing to our community and for sharing our website and blog with friends and family.

Veggie Temperature Tolerances

Understanding the temperature tolerances of the vegetables you grow is crucial for their growth and productivity. By providing the optimal temperature conditions, you can ensure healthy plants and a bountiful harvest. The veggies listed in this post are the same ones listed in our Planting Calendar Climate Zone 5b.

It's important to note that temperature tolerances may vary slightly depending on the variety of the vegetable, as well as other environmental factors such as humidity and soil moisture. When growing vegetables, it's always best to consult the seed packet or a gardening guide to determine the optimal temperature range for the specific variety of vegetable.

Learn how to protect your plants from both excessive heat and cold in our Larger Harvests in the Cool Seasons blog post.

Brassica family temperature tolerances

The swede midge fly (Contarinia nasturtii), an invasive pest from Europe, has begun wreaking havoc on brassica crops in the northern Midwest. Learn how to protect your plants in our blog post about Swede Midge Fly Management. Contact our customer support about buying bug netting. See our bug netting protections setup in our experimental garden.

Broccolini is a hybrid vegetable, a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale. It is known for its mild and slightly sweet taste, tender stems, and delicate florets. Broccolini can tolerate both high and low temperatures, but it grows best in cool weather with temperatures between 50-70°F (10-21°C). If the temperature gets too hot, broccolini can bolt (start to flower prematurely) and become bitter. On the other hand, if the temperature drops below 25°F (-4°C), broccolini can suffer from frost damage.

Brussels sprouts are a type of cabbage that grow in small, compact heads on a tall stem. They have a slightly bitter taste and are often roasted or sautéed. Brussels sprouts are also quite hardy and can tolerate both high and low temperatures. They grow best in cool weather with temperatures between 45-75°F (7-24°C). However, they can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) without suffering significant damage. High temperatures can cause the sprouts to open up and become loose, which can reduce their quality and flavor.

Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that comes in a variety of shapes and colors, including green, purple, and white. It has a slightly sweet taste and is often used in salads, coleslaw, and stir-fries. Cabbage is a cool-season crop and grows best in temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C). However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) and as high as 80°F (27°C) for short periods of time. If the temperature gets too hot, cabbage can bolt and become bitter. If the temperature drops below 20°F (-7°C), cabbage can suffer from frost damage.

Cauliflower is a member of the cruciferous family and is closely related to broccoli and cabbage. It has a mild, nutty flavor and is often used in soups, stews, and roasted vegetable dishes. Cauliflower prefers cool weather and grows best in temperatures between 60-68°F (15-20°C). If the temperature gets too high, cauliflower can become tough and bitter. If the temperature drops below 25°F (-4°C), cauliflower can suffer from frost damage.

Collards are a leafy green vegetable that is often used in Southern cooking. They have a slightly bitter taste and are rich in nutrients such as vitamin K and vitamin C. Collards are a cool-season crop and grow best in temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C). However, they can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C) for short periods of time. If the temperature gets too high, collards can bolt and become tough and bitter. If the temperature drops below 20°F (-7°C), collards can suffer from frost damage.

Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is often used in salads, smoothies, and soups. It has a slightly bitter taste and is known for its high nutrient content, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and iron. Kale prefers cool weather and grows best in temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) and as high as 80°F (27°C) for short periods of time. If the temperature gets too high, kale can become tough and bitter. If the temperature drops below 20°F (-7°C), kale can suffer from frost damage.

Kohlrabi can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in cool weather conditions. It's important to prevent heat stress, by providing adequate irrigation and shade. It can withstand light frosts but not extended periods of cold weather. The ideal temperature range for kohlrabi growth and development is between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Kohlrabi can tolerate high temperatures up to 85°F (29°C), but prolonged exposure to such temperatures can cause bolting, or premature flowering, which negatively affects the quality of the kohlrabi bulb. Cooler temperatures can result in sweeter and crisper kohlrabi bulbs. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant, causing the bulb to become soft and spongy.

Cucurbit family temperature tolerances

Cucumbers are heat-sensitive and do best in temperatures between 60-90°F (16-32°C). They can tolerate some heat but will become stressed if temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C). Cucumbers can also be damaged by frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Cantaloupes prefer warm temperatures and grow best in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). They can tolerate some heat but may become stressed if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C). Cantaloupes can also be damaged by frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Summer squash, such as zucchini and yellow squash, thrive in warm temperatures between 70-95°F (21-35°C). They can tolerate some heat but may become stressed if temperatures exceed 100°F (38°C). Summer squash can also be damaged by frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Winter squash, such as butternut and acorn squash, can tolerate cooler temperatures than summer squash. They grow best in temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C) and can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C). Winter squash can be damaged by frost and temperatures below 

Zucchini, like other summer squash, prefer warm temperatures between 70-95°F (21-35°C). They can tolerate some heat but may become stressed if temperatures exceed 100°F (38°C). Zucchini can also be damaged by frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Watermelons are heat-loving plants that do best in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). They can tolerate some heat but may become stressed if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C). Watermelons can also be damaged by frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Fruiting crop temperature tolerances

In general temperatures between 40 and 50º for a night won’t hurt most tomato varieties and peppers. The severe cold damage comes below 40º. It’s best to transplant seedlings at the warmer part of the planting period. A “heat wave” with temperatures above 85ª and 90º F can severely damage tomato plants. Some varieties can stop producing fruit for 2 weeks, and other varieties stop producing fruit for the rest of the growing season.

Cherry tomatoes are warm-season plants and prefer temperatures between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but don't grow well in temperatures below 50°F (10°C). If temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C), cherry tomato plants may drop their flowers and fruits.

Roma tomatoes are also warm-season plants and prefer temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but don't grow well in temperatures below 55°F (13°C). Like cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes may drop their flowers and fruits if temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C).

Heirloom tomatoes are also warm-season plants and prefer temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but don't grow well in temperatures below 55°F (13°C). If temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C), heirloom tomato plants may drop their flowers and fruits.

Eggplant is a warm-season vegetable that thrives in temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). They prefer warm nights, and the optimal temperature range for eggplant growth is 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). Eggplants can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, but extended periods of temperatures over 90°F (32°C) can stress the plant and cause damage.

Sweet peppers are also warm-season vegetables and prefer temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but prefer warm days and nights. The optimal temperature range for sweet pepper growth is 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). Temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can cause the plant to stop growing and may lead to flower and fruit drop.

Hot peppers are similar to sweet peppers in their temperature requirements, preferring warm temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). However, some hot pepper varieties, such as habaneros, can tolerate higher temperatures up to 95°F (35°C). Like sweet peppers, hot peppers may stop growing and drop flowers and fruit at temperatures above 90°F (32°C).

Greens temperature tolerances

Amaranth is tolerant of high temperatures and can grow well in warm climates. It can tolerate temperatures up to 95°F (35°C) but prefers a range between 70-85°F (21-29°C). In contrast, amaranth cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Swiss chard is a cool-season vegetable that prefers mild temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures down to 15°F (-9°C) but prefers a temperature range of 50-75°F (10-24°C). High temperatures can cause Swiss chard to bolt, or flower and produce seeds prematurely.

Lettuce is a cool-season vegetable that prefers temperatures between 60-65°F (16-18°C). It can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-7°C) but will bolt in high temperatures above 75°F (24°C).

New Zealand spinach is a heat-loving plant that can tolerate temperatures up to 95°F (35°C). It prefers temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) and can tolerate light frosts down to 32°F (0°C).

Spinach is a cool-season vegetable that prefers temperatures between 50-65°F (10-18°C). It can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-7°C) but will bolt in high temperatures above 75°F (24°C).

Bok choy is a cool-season vegetable that prefers temperatures between 60-65°F (16-18°C). It can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-7°C) but will bolt in high temperatures above 75°F (24°C).

Herb temperature tolerances

Basil is a heat-loving herb that can tolerate high temperatures up to 90°F (32°C). However, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 90°F can cause the leaves to wilt and dry out. Basil is sensitive to cold temperatures and can be damaged by frost. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but anything below that can cause damage or death to the plant.

Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures and can start to bolt (go to seed) when temperatures reach above 75°F (24°C). It can tolerate higher temperatures up to 85°F (29°C) with proper care and watering. Cilantro can tolerate some frost, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 32°F (0°C) can cause damage or death to the plant.

Dill can tolerate temperatures up to 85°F (29°C), but prefers cooler temperatures. High temperatures can cause the plant to bolt and go to seed prematurely. Dill can tolerate light frost and temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C). However, prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause damage or death to the plant.

Oregano is a heat-loving herb that can tolerate high temperatures up to 100°F (38°C). It prefers temperatures between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) for optimal growth. Oregano is fairly cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) with some protection. Extended exposure to freezing temperatures can cause damage or death to the plant.

Sage is a heat-loving herb that can tolerate high temperatures up to 90°F (32°C). However, it prefers temperatures between 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C) for optimal growth. Sage is fairly cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C) with some protection. However, extended exposure to freezing temperatures can cause damage or death to the plant.

Parsley prefers cooler temperatures and can start to wilt and dry out when temperatures reach above 85°F (29°C). It is best grown in temperatures between 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Parsley is somewhat cold hardy and can tolerate light frost and temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C). However, extended exposure to freezing temperatures can cause damage or death to the plant.

Lavender: English lavender is winter-hardy to Zone 5 and may only need a bit of help in the form of a thin layer of straw. Otherwise, lavender shouldn't need any extra care outdoors. Spanish and French lavenders, on the other hand, are only hardy to Zone 8, and will need to be brought indoors in colder areas. Before the first frost, it is best to bring the potted lavender plants indoors and place them in a dry, unheated room. Cellars, garages, greenhouses or winter gardens are particularly suitable for overwintering. 

Legume temperature tolerances

While these legumes can tolerate a range of temperatures, they each have an optimal temperature range for growth and yield. It is important to consider these temperature ranges when planting and caring for legumes in your garden to ensure the best results.

Bush beans can tolerate temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). However, they prefer a temperature range of 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) for optimal growth. Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can slow down the growth of bush beans, while temperatures above 85°F (29°C) can cause the flowers to drop, resulting in reduced yield.

Pole beans can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 86°F (10°C to 30°C). However, they prefer a temperature range of 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) for optimal growth. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause poor germination, and temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can cause flowers to drop, resulting in reduced yield.

Fava beans can tolerate temperatures ranging from 40°F to 75°F (4°C to 24°C). They prefer a temperature range of 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C) for optimal growth. Temperatures above 75°F (24°C) can cause the plants to bolt, resulting in reduced yield.

Snap peas can tolerate temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F (7°C to 24°C). They prefer a temperature range of 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) for optimal growth. Temperatures above 75°F (24°C) can cause the plants to become stressed, resulting in reduced yield.

Snow peas can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). They prefer a temperature range of 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C) for optimal growth. Temperatures above 75°F (24°C) can cause the pods to become tough and inedible.

Shell peas can tolerate temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F (7°C to 24°C). They prefer a temperature range of 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) for optimal growth. Temperatures above 75°F (24°C) can cause the pods to mature too quickly, resulting in reduced yield.

Root Crop temperature tolerances

These root vegetables have different temperature preferences and tolerances, but they are generally hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures. However, extreme temperatures can cause damage or poor growth, so it's best to plant them in their preferred temperature range and provide protection in case of temperature extremes.

Beets are a hardy root vegetable that can tolerate both high and low temperatures. They can grow in temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 85°F (29°C). However, they prefer cooler temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 65°F (18°C). Beets can withstand light frosts but may suffer from frost damage if temperatures drop below 28°F (-2°C) for an extended period.

Carrots are another hardy root vegetable that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They prefer cooler temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 70°F (21°C) but can grow in temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 80°F (27°C). However, they may suffer from poor growth and deformities in hot temperatures above 80°F (27°C). In cold temperatures, they can tolerate light frosts but may suffer damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C) for an extended period.

Garlic planting times are unique. Plant the cloves at the optimum time for your climate zone. In zones 0 to 4 plant in late August to September. In zones 5 to 8 plant in mid-October through mid-November. In zones 9 to 10 plant in late November to December or before the ground freezes. Garlic is a cool-season crop that prefers temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 70°F (21°C). It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 90°F (32°C) but may suffer from poor growth and bulb development in temperatures above 90°F (32°C). Garlic can also withstand light frosts, but temperatures below 20°F (-7°C) can cause severe damage.

Green onions, also known as scallions, are a cool-season crop that prefers temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 70°F (21°C). They can tolerate temperatures ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 85°F (29°C) but may suffer from poor growth in temperatures above 85°F (29°C). Green onions can also withstand light frosts, but temperatures below 20°F (-7°C) can cause severe damage.

Parsnips are a cool-season crop that prefers temperatures between 50°F (10°C) and 65°F (18°C). They can tolerate temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 75°F (24°C) but may suffer from poor growth in temperatures above 75°F (24°C). Parsnips can withstand light frosts but may suffer damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C) for an extended period.

Radishes are a cool-season crop that prefers temperatures between 50°F (10°C) and 65°F (18°C). They can tolerate temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 85°F (29°C) but may suffer from poor growth in temperatures above 85°F (29°C). Radishes can withstand light frosts, but temperatures below 20°F (-7°C) can cause severe damage.

“Grow Your Own Food” blog posts

See the full list of our Grow Your Own Food blog posts. Each post is assigned ”tags” which are under the post title. If you need a quick answer to a gardening question give us a call or send a text to our customer support team – support[at]deep-roots-project.org AND 708-655-5299.

Deep Roots online store

See our online store for details about prices, ordering and delivery of raised beds, planter boxes, microbe-rich compost, worm castings, leaf mulch and more. We don’t sell traditional soil, since we use 100% compost as our growing medium. Our online store has 2 sections – (1) raised beds and planter boxes and (2) compost, worm castings, fertilizer.

Please contact our customer support team before placing an order online so we can assist you with the details and answer your gardening questions. You can pay by credit card in the store or by check.

(708) 655-5299 and support[at]deep-roots-project.org

Please leave your cell phone number when you sign up for our eNewsletter, if you want text message announcements now and then.

Donations help us provide organic kitchen gardening education to individuals, organizations, and entire communities. Thank you in advance for contributing to our community and for sharing our website and blog with friends and family.

Planting Garlic in Fall

Best planting times

Garlic is best planted in mid-October for a bountiful harvest next summer. Exact best days vary depending on if you are in Chicago city (in Zone 6a, plant Oct. 17 to 31) or suburbs (in Zone 5b, plant Oct. 13 to 21), Garlic sprouts in spring and is harvested in July. Don’t plant garlic after the first day of freezing temperatures around Oct 30th. Check latest weather predictions of first night time freeze. Garlic is relatively care-free when given a well-drained site, our compost as your soil, with full sun, good air circulation and worm castings as fertilizer.

Grow Hardneck garlic in Zones 5 and 6

Hardneck garlic is the preferred choice for Chicago area climates because it needs a significant cold period to mature. Plant in late fall (October/November) to ensure it gets the necessary weeks of cold exposure. It produces a stiff central stalk and has a more robust flavor, with large, easy-to-peel cloves. 

Softneck garlic can grow in Zones 5 and 6, but may struggle. Most Softneck varieties are more suited to warmer climates (Zones 8-12), but you can find some softneck varieties that are suitable for colder temperatures and can be grown in Zone 5 and 6 - for example: Inchelium Red, Nootka Rose, and Pioneer. Be sure to plant them 4-6 weeks before the first frost.

Best cloves to plant: It’s worth the extra dollars sowing the biggest and healthiest organic garlic and shallot bulbs you can find. You’ll reap that much more when you harvest. There is a direct relationship between the size of bulbs and cloves you plant the size of the bulbs and cloves you’ll harvest.

Buy garlic to plant from farmers markets: Locally grown garlic is the best. We get our planting cloves from our current year’s crop or from a farmers market - using only the largest bulbs and large cloves. Last day for Oak Park Farmers Market is Oct. 25 in 2025.

There are many varieties of garlic. A few good varieties are Carpathian, Inchelium Red, Idaho Silverskin and Persian Star, and the best sources of planting stock are mail-order and internet specialty seed companies and diverse garden centers.

Growing Tips

Soil: Best to use our 100% microbe-rich compost as your soil. Every fall enrich the soil with 2 inches of our microbe-rich compost. Don’t work it into the existing soil. Tilling and digging your soil for any reason other than planting seeds and seedlings damages microbial structures and the  health of your soil. Add a half cup of worm castings as a fertilizer in each planting hole.

Planting: Best to plant large garlic cloves about 5-8 inches apart, root side down and pointy end up. You can plant a single row or several rows with four to eight inches between plants, planting at least 3 inches below the surface. Mulch with a good four inches of straw or shredded leaves. If you're not planning to mulch, sow at least five inches deep.

Care: In spring and early summer weeds can be invasive and should be controlled. Mulch the soil with straw or other organic materials soon after planting. This will also help to alleviate winter soil frost heaving that can damage new roots. Remove the straw once top growth is evident in the spring, or excess moisture may rot bulbs.

Remove any flower stalks (scapes) that emerge, as they can divert energy away from the bulbs. If allowed to mature to seed, they can reduce bulb size. Young garlic scapes are considered a garden delicacy and can be chopped into fresh salads.

Watering: Garlic needs consistent moisture to develop strong bulbs, especially during dry spells. Water deeply when the soil begins to dry out, but avoid keeping the soil soggy, as excessive moisture can cause rot. Fertilize with worm castings in early spring to boost nutrient availability. Once the bulbs begin to mature in early summer and the lower leaves start to yellow, stop watering completely to help the bulbs cure and prevent splitting.

Harvest: Harvest garlic before the tops completely die down, preferably with 4 to 6 green leaves still attached. Dig up the bulbs carefully, being careful not to damage them.

Storage: Remove excess soil, but do not wash, and lay whole plants on screens or hang in small bunches to dry. Allow it to cure completely in a warm, well-ventilated room, but not in direct sunlight. Watch for rotting bulbs, remove these and increase air circulation if needed using a box fan.

Curing will take about 4 to 6 weeks. After that, roots and tops can be trimmed, and outer dirty skins can be removed. Store cured garlic in a cool dry place. Remember all garlic varieties taste the same at harvest time, but after curing and a few weeks of storage time, individual variety flavors will come out.

Join the Deep Roots movement

We’re not just about gardening; we’re about changing the way people grow food. Whether you have a tiny balcony or a full backyard, we’ll help you grow like a pro.

Stay in the loop: Signup for our email newsletter. If you also provide your phone number you will get text message updates that link to our best blog posts.

Get involved: Attend a free workshop, become a volunteer, grab a raised bed, or simply follow along for expert tips. Contact our support team any time you have a question at 708-655-5299 and support@deep-roots-project.org.

Learn. Share. Grow. Volunteer: We invite you to be a part of our sustainable movement right here in our own backyards! We want all our volunteers to have fun and learn while they contribute to expanding the Deep Roots community. We can customize a volunteer assignment to your time, interests and skills. Learn more on our Volunteer page

Dive Deeper

Click on the Blog Posts below for more about our Innovative methods.

Beautify Your Garden with Our Cedar Raised Beds!

 Our Deep Roots handcrafted cedar raised beds are designed to endure outdoors while adding a touch of style to your yard. As a bonus, they are the perfect depth to hold just the right amount of our nutrient-rich compost growing medium, which comes free with each bed.

Deep Roots Supports Gardeners

We provide our gardeners with the best products for success – like cedar raised beds, microbe-rich compost and microbe-rich worm castings.

Call our customer support team with any questions or help with calculations. Then place your order online. If you need help or have a question contact us at support[at]deep-roots-project.org and 708-655-5299.

See our online store for details about prices, ordering and delivery of raised beds, planter boxes, microbe-rich compost, worm castings, leaf mulch and more. We don’t sell traditional soil, since we use 100% compost as our growing medium. Our online store has 2 sections

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Donations help us provide organic kitchen gardening education to individuals, organizations, and entire communities. Thank you in advance for contributing to our community and for sharing our website and blog with friends and family.

Plant Spinach Seeds in Fall

Plant seeds Nov. 15 to 30 for spring germination

Get a larger crop with much less work if you plant the seeds in November for germination in the spring. Early November is unpredictably warm. Better to plant in late November when temperatures are reliably colder. Spinach seeds like the cold and snow. You can also plant more seeds in late February/early March.

It’s important to remember that Mother Nature does not have formulas that work every time because the temperature and climatic conditions change from year to year. Gardening teaches you patience, flexibility and adaptability.

STEP-BY-STEP growing your spinach:

1. Spread 2 inches of our microbe-rich compost before planting your seeds. If your bed is mostly traditional soil spread 3 or 4 inches of our compost.

2. Our favorite variety is Bloomberg spinach. Store your extra seeds for next year in an airtight plastic bag in the refrigerator with moisture absorbing pouches.

3. We suggest planting seeds in rows or small clusters. Add worm castings in the seed holes or seed furrows.

4. Sow seeds one at a time, ½-inch to 1-inch deep and 5 inches apart.

5. When you have finished planting your row of seeds, lightly sprinkle some compost over them so that the birds don’t eat them.

6. No watering needed. Spring rains provide the water to make them happy.

7. In spring harvest before the warm weather starts to avoid leaves “bolting” and turning bitter. Bolted leaves have pointy tips. Start by harvesting the biggest leaves one at a time,

Benefits of Eating Spinach

Cooking spinach drastically reduces oxalic acid. Since raw spinach contains more oxalic acid than other leafy greens, eat spinach both cooked and raw. Too much oxalic acid causes kidney stones in some people. Learn more about its nutrients and the best way to cook spinach.

Rich in Nutrients: Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, magnesium, and iron. Spinach is loaded with antioxidants like quercetin, which can combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.

Eye Health: Spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids known to promote eye health and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Heart Health: The potassium and magnesium in spinach can help regulate blood pressure levels, thus promoting heart health.

Bone Health: The vitamin K in spinach plays an essential role in bone health by helping in calcium regulation and bone mineralization.

Cancer Prevention: Spinach contains compounds like chlorophyll and other antioxidants which have been studied for their potential cancer-preventative properties.

Improved Digestion: Spinach has high fiber content which can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut.

Blood Building: Iron content in spinach can assist in red blood cell formation and combat iron-deficiency anemia.

Skin and Hair Health: Vitamins A and C in spinach promote healthy skin and hair. Vitamin A is necessary for sebum production, which keeps hair moisturized.

Red Malabar - A Heat Loving Spinach Alternative

Red Malabar is a spinach alternative that is pest-resistant, heat loving, and can grow all summer long. See our blog post for more details: Red Malabar Spinach.

Since Red Malabar is a heat loving plant and not a true spinach, it is not suitable for the fall seed spreading technique described in this blog post. Red Malabar seeds should be directly sown, or seedlings planted only after the last frost has passed in the spring. 

“Grow Your Own Food” blog posts

See the full list of our Grow Your Own Food blog posts. Each post is assigned ”tags” which are under the post title. If you need a quick answer to a gardening question give us a call or send a text to our customer support team – support[at]deep-roots-project.org AND 708-655-5299.

Deep Roots online store

See our online store for details about prices, ordering and delivery of raised beds, planter boxes, microbe-rich compost, worm castings, leaf mulch and more. We don’t sell traditional soil, since we use 100% compost as our growing medium. Our online store has 2 sections – (1) raised beds and planter boxes and (2) compost, worm castings, fertilizer.

Please contact our customer support team before placing an order online so we can assist you with the details and answer your gardening questions. You can pay by credit card in the store or by check.

(708) 655-5299 and support[at]deep-roots-project.org

Please leave your cell phone number when you sign up for our eNewsletter, if you want text message announcements now and then.

Donations help us provide organic kitchen gardening education to individuals, organizations, and entire communities. Thank you in advance for contributing to our community and for sharing our website and blog with friends and family.

Growing squash in a suburban garden

Growing squash in a suburban garden in zone 6a can be highly rewarding with the right approach. Here are some tips to help you succeed, along with information on pollination and improving it.

Tips for Growing Squash in Zone 6a

1. Choose the Right Varieties: Select varieties of squash that are well-suited to your growing season and climate. Both summer squash (like zucchini) and winter squash (like butternut) can thrive in zone 6a.

2. Planting Time: Plant squash seeds or seedlings after the last frost date for your area. In zone 6a, this is typically around mid-May. Squash seeds can be started indoors about 3-4 weeks before transplanting.

3. Soil Preparation: Squash prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Amend your soil with plenty of compost to ensure it is fertile and retains moisture well.

4. Spacing: Squash plants need plenty of space to grow. Space them about 3-4 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.

5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Squash plants need about 1-2 inches of water per week. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to disease.

6. Mulching: Use mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent.
   Support: For vining varieties, consider using a trellis to save space and improve air circulation around the plants.

7. Storing: Winter squash is best stored at temperatures between 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C). This range helps preserve the squash for several months, allowing it to stay firm and flavorful. Store the squash in a cool, dry place with good ventilation, such as a basement, cellar, or pantry, where humidity levels are relatively low to avoid rot. Make sure to keep the squash off the cold floor and avoid storing it in the fridge, as temperatures below 50°F can lead to faster spoilage.

Squash Pollination

Squash plants produce both male and female flowers. Male flowers typically appear first, followed by female flowers, which have a small swelling at the base that will develop into the fruit once pollinated.

How to Improve Pollination

1. Attract Pollinators: Squash is primarily pollinated by bees. To attract more bees to your garden, plant flowers that bloom throughout the growing season. Native wildflowers, marigolds, and sunflowers are great choices.

2. Hand Pollination: If natural pollination is inadequate, you can hand-pollinate. Use a small paintbrush or simply pick a male flower and gently transfer pollen to the stigma of the female flower. This is best done in the morning when flowers are fully open.

3. Avoid Pesticides: Minimize or avoid using pesticides, especially during the flowering period, as these can harm pollinators.

4. Companion Planting: Planting herbs like basil, mint, or flowers like marigolds and nasturtiums near your squash can help attract pollinators and beneficial insects.

5. Provide Water Sources: Pollinators need water. Provide a shallow water source in your garden, such as a shallow dish with stones for the bees to land on.

By following these tips and ensuring good pollination practices, you can enjoy a bountiful squash harvest in your suburban garden.

“Grow Your Own Food” blog posts

See the full list of our Grow Your Own Food blog posts. Each post is assigned ”tags” which are under the post title. If you need a quick answer to a gardening question give us a call or send a text to our customer support team – support[at]deep-roots-project.org AND 708-655-5299.

Deep Roots online store

See our online store for details about prices, ordering and delivery of raised beds, planter boxes, microbe-rich compost, worm castings, leaf mulch and more. We don’t sell traditional soil, since we use 100% compost as our growing medium. Our online store has 2 sections – (1) raised beds and planter boxes and (2) compost, worm castings, fertilizer.

Please contact our customer support team before placing an order online so we can assist you with the details and answer your gardening questions. You can pay by credit card in the store or by check.

(708) 655-5299 and support[at]deep-roots-project.org

Please leave your cell phone number when you sign up for our eNewsletter, if you want text message announcements now and then.

Donations help us provide organic kitchen gardening education to individuals, organizations, and entire communities. Thank you in advance for contributing to our community and for sharing our website and blog with friends and family.

Community Building - planning your plant community wisely

“Community Building”

We are not talking about a community of people - but of plants. Deep Roots Project (DRP) likes to use this term when making reference to the types of plants that you decide to grow together. Most garden organizations refer to this as companion planting - but our crop advisor and horticulturist team member shared her wonderful vision of a plant community - each contributing something different and unique, just like people!

Have Fun & Be Creative

When we tell our new kitchen gardeners that they really don’t have to grow in rows - it’s an “aha moment”. But it is true - you can plant in any pattern that you want - as long as you give some though as to the plant community you will be building - and which might be friends or foes. Besides allowing you to be innovative and artistic, growing in a less-restrictive way offers some benefits.

Helpful Tips

When you decide which plants to grow together in your raised bed - you need to take into consideration which plants, such as legumes, can contribute to puttinng key nutrients into the soil (nutrient enrichment) and which plants can act as an insulator and give additional protection to the soil from the sun, beyond what any mulch you are using might provide (canopy enhancement). The most common crops used for this reason are nasturtium (flowers), and herbs like thyme and oregano.

Other considerations when choosing which plant to add to your raised bed:

• Amount of sunlight or shade

• Growing period (time to maturity)

• Encouragement of predatory/beneficial insects

  NOTE: if you are transplanting your seedlings on very hot days - be sure to wait until 1 hour before sunset - so the sun will not be too extreme. Your seedlings need a restful and cool night in their new home - and be sure to water in the morning on their first day in the raised bed. On hot days - always water at least twice. Some of our blog readers mentioned a broken link for our new, updated watering post - please view it here.

Tall & Short of It

When you have harvested all of one crop and you want to plant another one in its place - think about how much shade is in the area where you are planting. If you are planting near tomato plants that will become very tall - plant seedlings that can grow well in partial shade like lettuce, basil or beets next to them - they can grow in shadier areas .

Some extra tips (tomato-friendly plants).

• Plants that need more sun should be further from the tomatoes.

• These sun-lovers should not be north of the tomatoes since the sun comes from the south, east and west.

• Lettuce, carrots and beets and most short veggies need more sun than herbs.

• Some herbs can be near the tomato and like more shade. Basil likes more sun than other herbs.

BEETS- A DRP FAVORITE: Many of our kitchen gardeners have discovered the delicious greens made from the leaves of this colorful, versatile plant. The greens and the stems offer a welocome substitute for spinach, swiss chard and other leafy greens. So when you are cleaning the beets - remember that the beet greens are not only delicious, but full of vitamins - so don’t toss them! MORE.

Friendly Neighbors

Some flowers like marigolds and nasturtiums discourage preditory insects and certain native plants that grow in your area might encourage beneficial insects - we will have an entire webinar discussing this topic.

Great Gap Fillers

As you start eating more of your harvest and find empty spaces in your raised bed - - consider filling the gaps with herbs like basil, dill, and green onions. Pay attention to the sun exposure for each herb . You will never tire of them and learning new recipes where you can experiment with spices is exciting when they are fresh from your garden and not from the store!

New Service

Get your lists of questions ready…

We are very excited to be able to offer customers personalized garden mentoring with our new team member and Kitchen Gardening Guru, Rafa Crevosay, Horticulturist and Certified Crop Adviser. We will send details about our Soil Health/Garden Coaching services soon. If you’d like details ASAP, write lesley[at]deep-roots-project.org an please put “coaching” in the subject line.

During the pandemic, we will continue to offer door-to-door delivery of our Store products - but no pick-up.

New Text Messaging Service

To SUBSCRIBE for text messages announcing recent blog posts, gardening tips and special offers please send a message to this new number: 708-655-5299.

You can UNSUBSCRIBE at any time by sending “unsubscribe” to the same number.

NOTE: sometimes there is a delay in the UNSUBSCRIBE process. We try to do our best, but if you continue to get text messages after you have asked us to unsubscribe you, please send an email to Customer Support at the email address listed below.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions?

Please write our new Garden Support Manager at: rosita.deep.roots[at]gmail.com

Donations help us provide organic kitchen gardening education to individuals, organizations, and entire communities. Thank you in advance for contributing to our community and for sharing our website and blog (DRP News) with friends and family.

Deep Roots connects you to the earth and connects us to each other.

Special TIP for cabbage family crops.

Before you read this blog post - please click on the button below to see why our DRP CORE METHOD is so innovative.

Chicago-area kitchen gardeners have learned the hard way - it’s essential to cover cabbage family crops all season from cabbage worms and cabbage moths with floating row cover. Estelle has become an expert cabbage pest warrior with her use of “floating row cover” which she can explain more about, should you decide to buy these plants. READ MORE.

WARNING Broccoli Lovers!

Many food growers try to fit broccoli into their planting schedule because it is incredibly healthy. It is a good source of Vitamin A, potassium, folic acid, iron, and fiber. BUT – if you live in the Chicago area – think twice. You might have some major challenges. We want to at least give you proper warning – and then, you decide if you’re a risk taker!
Broccoli is attacked by multiple pests and diseases in our area. Many local home gardeners have given up growing broccoli and focus instead on other greens like kale, Swiss chard, Chinese cabbage, Chinese broccoli and Bok Choy. See a visual guide to 10 varieties of Asian greens at https://www.thekitchn.com/a-visual-guide-to-10-varieties-of-asian-greens-98840 Article “What is Chinese cabbage?” is at https://www.thespruceeats.com/chinese-cabbage-info-694681

Prevent clubroot: Broccoli is prone to a root fungus called clubroot that can be prevented by careful planting and planning.

WARNING: clubroot fungus is extremely contagious and can be spread to other plants with hands, tools, and anything that comes into contact with it. Also, it can come with seedlings that you purchase from garden centers - and once you have it in your raised bed, there is no way to get rid of it. Don’t worry about it attacking other plants in your bed - they are safe, So, beware of these risks and consider if it might be worth it to consider an alternative veggie.

Chicago-area customers can always call/text our team for cabbage family garden coaching (708-655-5299).

To UNSUBSCRIBE text messages: Please send our team (708-655-5299) a text message if you DO NOT wish to receive the telephone text messages that we now send to announce special offers and new blog posts that we don’t want you to miss.