November is a magical time on the Mornington Peninsula. The sun climbs higher above us and the soil begins to really warm up, enticing backyard gardeners to get their main fruiting crops in the ground. While the spring rains linger and the promise of summer looms, this is an opportune month to dive into the world of vegetable gardening if you haven’t already.
The Peninsula’s climate, with its mild temperatures and ample sunshine, sets the stage for a diverse array of vegetables that can be planted now. One of the stars of the season is the tomato. November marks the time when tomato plants can be lovingly placed in the soil, anticipating a harvest that embodies the essence of summer. Choose a sunny spot, enrich the soil with organic compost and watch as your tomato plants stretch towards the sky with the potential of succulent, sun-ripened fruits in a couple of months.
As you navigate your way through the vegetable patch, don’t forget to invite zucchinis to the party. These versatile vegetables thrive in the Peninsula’s climate and are a joy to cultivate. Their sprawling leaves and large, bright flowers add a touch of whimsy to the garden, while the bounty of zucchinis that follows is a gift to the kitchen. From stir-fries to fritters, zucchinis offer endless possibilities for culinary creativity. Don’t overdo it though; one or two plants with be ample for a family of four.
For those seeking leafy greens to grace their salads, stir-fries and juices, this is the perfect time to transplant your seedlings of spinach, kale and silverbeet. These nutrient-packed greens revel in the cool yet gentle warmth of late spring, producing tender leaves that embody the essence of freshness. If you have enriched your soil adequately with organic matter, you will have provided the ideal bed for these greens to flourish, ensuring a bountiful harvest for your family.
And as you delve further into the planting season, consider introducing the vibrant hues of capsicums to your garden palette. With their glossy skin and crisp texture, capsicums are a delight to grow and a feast for the eyes. Plant them in well-drained soil, bask them in sunlight and soon you’ll be harvesting a rainbow of capsicums to elevate your culinary creations.
Novice gardeners and seasoned enthusiasts alike can rejoice in the simplicity of growing herbs on the Peninsula. November is an excellent time to establish a herb garden, welcoming fragrant additions such as basil, parsley and chives. These culinary companions not only add depth and flavour to your dishes but also contribute to the overall health of your garden by attracting beneficial insects. Oregano, marjoram and thyme will also enjoy the warming days and send their wonderful fragrances into the air every time you brush past them.
In the spirit of sustainable gardening, consider dedicating a corner of your plot to root and tuber vegetables such as carrots, beetroot and potatoes. These earthy delights thrive at this time of year and are all very patient, so they’ll wait in the soil until you are ready to use them.
As you progress on your vegetable-growing journey, let regular observations guide you. Growing your own food is wonderful, but you will need to nurture your babies along the way if they are going to mature into the nutrition-providing beauties we hope they will become.
HAPPY GARDENING!
Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens
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