A First Step
Out in the yard, I have four 8' x 4' garden beds that I have been using on and off for the past two years. My plan this year is to closely manage how I am using this space in order to maximize the amount of vegetables I can grow. Using this space effectively is integral to building personal freedom. Growing my own food ameliorates some of my reliance on corporations and unnatural agricultural systems in a way that is affordable and enjoyable. Also, these gardens give me a feeling of relaxation and connection with the earth which supports me in a spiritual way.
My backyard is mostly shaded by large trees, but has some patchy areas of bright sunlight. Most of the vegetables I'm planning on growing are those that can tolerate some shade. Today I planted rainbow chard in one of the garden beds. It's one of the more shaded beds, so I figured a good leafy green would do okay in this space. Plus, any greens will wilt in our hot Florida sun if they are overexposed. The package says 52 days to harvest and 5-12 days to germination. Most sources say that chard can be planted in August, but with all the shade cover I decided to start the seeds growing a little early. I planted three rows, spaced 6" apart, with 2-3 seeds every 6 inches.
Now we wait and see. I've never grown chard before, but I have grown kale successfully for a few years now. I want to really commit this time to making sure that I am weeding and being attentive to harvesting appropriately. I want to produce as much as I can with what I have. I realize that it's not going to be perfect. I'm not going to be able to produce all my own vegetables, but I can do what I can with what I have...because I can.
