So you're a Yooper gardener, and June is a crucial month for your growing season. The weather has warmed up, and your plants are starting to mature. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your garden this month:
1. Plant Warm-Season Crops
June is the perfect time to plant warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. These plants need warm soil and air temperatures to grow properly, and by planting them in June, you'll give them plenty of time to mature before the first frost.
2. Water Regularly
As the weather heats up, your plants will need more water to stay healthy. Make sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. It's best to water in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid evaporation.
3. Fertilize
Your plants will need plenty of nutrients to grow strong and healthy. Fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks to keep them growing strong.
4. Control Weeds
Weeds can quickly take over your garden if you don't keep them under control. Pull them out by hand or use a hoe to remove them from your garden beds.
5. Harvest Early Crops
If you planted early-season crops like lettuce, radishes, and spinach, it's time to harvest them. These crops don't do well in hot weather, so it's best to pick them before the temperatures rise too much.
Here are some guidelines for harvesting crops your early-season crops:
Harvest early in the morning when the plants are still cool and hydrated. This will help preserve the flavor and texture of the produce.
Use clean, sharp tools to harvest your crops. Dull or dirty tools can damage your plants and increase the risk of disease.
Harvest vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers when they are fully ripe but still firm. For leafy greens like lettuce and spinach, harvest them when they are young and tender.
For root vegetables like carrots and beets, wait until they are the size you want and gently pull them out of the ground.
To harvest herbs, cut the stems just above a set of leaves. This will encourage the plant to continue producing new growth.
Remember to always handle your produce with care and store it properly to ensure the highest quality and longest shelf life.
Source: 1Michigan State University Extension. (2021, May 27). Vegetable Gardening - Gardening in Michigan. https://www.canr.msu.edu/home_gardening/vegetables/
Sources:
Michigan State University Extension. (2021, May 27). Vegetable Gardening - Gardening in Michigan. https://www.canr.msu.edu/home_gardening/vegetables/ ↩
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful growing season.
Happy gardening!