During the summer, the activities in the orchard intensify, both in the countryside and in the city, whatever its size and whether it is made vertically, in boxes, pallets or pots.
Planning, association of crops, soil fertilization and irrigation are, among others, the main recommendations for this time of year.
In this context, Technicians from ProHuerta – a program of INTA and the Ministry of Social Development of the Nation – provide a series of tips to produce and incorporate new species.
guidelines
The first that you have to take into account is what you want to grow and in what quantity. During this season, the species that can be planted are many: lettuce, chard, eggplant, tomato, pepper, pumpkin, squash, basil, parsley, melon, watermelon, among others.
That’s why the crop associations are a highlight. This is how you can grow a leaf crop and a root crop, for example: beetroot with chard, carrot with lettuce, tomato with basil. This is possible because the nutritional requirements are different and there is no competition between them.
Sowing in trays is a good option since it allows optimal soil, water and temperature conditions in the early stages of the plant.
“We get excited about the spring-summer garden, but this involves moving the soil, fertilizing it and starting with planting,” explained Claudia Viana – referent of the ProHuerta program of INTA La Pampa.
Therefore, for Viana “it is important to do good planning and take into account what we consume the most of this or that variety of vegetables. In turn, this allows efficient use of the available space.
Another highlight is ensure good seed quality and cover them with the appropriate amount of substrate. Given that not all of them will germinate, INTA recommends sowing between 10 and 15% more than the number to be transplanted.
In this sense, the substrate must have the necessary nutrients, good water retention and aeration, since it is a key element for seed germination and root development. Vermicompost or compost can be used, with dry leaves or perlite.
Finally, once transplanted pay attention to the water needs of the species. Collecting rainwater or generating a drip irrigation system are strategies to maintain soil moisture. In addition, the addition of mulch or plant cover protects from the sun and the impact of the irrigation water.
–
