Tips & Observations 

12.9.24

It has been my experience that cucumbers and tomatoes should not be grown in close proximity to each other. If grown at the same time of year, grow on opposite sides of the garden!

 

12.28.24

Observation...Companion planting is best done in groups instead of inter-planted. I've realized that planting chard and spinach together poses a problem because the larger leaves of the chard covers the spinach which means the spinach doesn't get adequate sunlight or water.  From now on, I'll companion plant by groups rather than interplanting.

 

1.7.25

If gardening in the winter, is it imperative to prepare for freezing temperatures by covering your crops with freeze cloths in a low tunnel and watering before the freeze. You can deep water several days prior to the anticipated freeze which allows the soil to absorb moisture gradually, helping the plant regulate its water content and fortify its cells against freezing temperatures or you can water just before the freeze which creates warmth, as the water loses heat slowly over hours into colder temperatures.

 

9.30.25

As I reflect over the summer gardening season there are a few tips that I would like to share. If you're in hotter zones like Louisiana zone 9a, don't be afraid to use shade cloths to help shield your crop from the blistering heat. I use 40% shade cloths but you can choose which % you like. Keep in mind the amount of sunlight that is required for each crop.