APRIL/MAY 2022 | maconmagazine.com 141
NOW FOR THE GOOD STUFF
There are so many tasty crops to choose from, and many would argue there's
nothing better than a homegrown tomato sandwich! If you like tomatoes, look for
transplants in local nurseries. Tomatoes are a little more difficult to direct seed, and
it is a little late to start them for this growing season.
Look for disease resistance designations on plant labels (V, F, N, etc.) to
know which varieties are heartier. It is argued that these resistance varieties
aren't as tasty as our heirloom varieties, but they can withstand pest and
disease pressures a little better. If you are a beginning gardener, consider
starting with cherry or grape tomatoes. They aren't prone to quite as many
problems as their larger cousins.
Growing peppers is similar to tomatoes. However, peppers tend to have
fewer issues than tomatoes. Plant tomatoes during April, peppers during April
and May. Squash, corn, cucumbers, beans, okra and melons do well as seeds.
However, on occasion, you'll also find these available in local stores.
A number of our traditional summer crops can be reseeded or replanted
during mid to late summer for a fall crop. This information and more can be found
on the home garden planting chart found in UGA Extension's 'Home Gardening'
publication at extension.uga.edu/publications.html. Material related to pests,
raised beds, irrigation and much more for both new and experienced gardeners
can also be found here.
There can be frustration, but even greater reward with vegetable gardening.
If you have particular questions, we are happy to help.
Send questions about gardening and landscaping to hello@maconmagazine.com or
call Bibb County Cooperative Extension at 478-751-6338 and tell us that Macon
Magazine sent you!
