Mitre Plan - Plant a healthy vegetable garden

Whether it's a luscious sun ripened tomato, a crisp lettuce, a handful of baby carrots or simply a sprig of herbs, there's something particularly satisfying about growing your own vegetables.

It's the pleasure of knowing you've grown it yourself and that you can't put anything fresher or tastier on the dinner table than home grown.

You don't need to be a full time farmer either to grow a basket full of fresh vitamin filled goodies. But as with all plants, your results will only be good if you provide the right conditions and care from the start.

All vegetables need plenty of sunshine. Morning sun is ideals, so find a spot with an easterly aspect. They also need protection from strong winds, particularly during the extremes of summer weather, so provide a wind- break on the westerly side if possible. Locate away from large trees. Tree roots can steal moisture and nutrients from the growing area.
Birds can be deterred with hawk kites, tying empty supermarket bags to the fence or to stakes, or by stringing pieces of aluminium foil among rows.

Australia has many climatic zones and the range of variances is very wide. The Mitre Plan has a handy guide that will show you what popular vegetables can be grown depending on the zone you live in.

So what are you waiting for? Go down to your local Mitre 10 and pick up a copy of the Mitre Plan, "Plant a healthy vegetable garden". If you need a little help, don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff and they will give you all the help you need. Alternatively visit www.mitre10.com.au.

*PAST SHOWS