Build your own backyard kitchen garden
Sure, you can always pop into the neighbourhood store to get your greens – but why not grow your own vegetables and save time and money? We’ve gathered some great advice from our landscaping team that you can employ to grow crunchy cauliflowers, tangy tomatoes and juicy melons.
1. Check your calendar
The time of the year is a crucial factor when it comes to prepping your garden. The winter months from September to December are the best time to start sowing seeds.
2. Pick plants that thrive in UAE
Picking versatile species that perform well in the country’s climate helps you maintain a healthier garden.
Vegetables: Tomato, lettuce, beetroot, mint, radish, eggplant, pepper, cucumber
Fruits: Lemon, lime, pomegranate, mango, papaya, fig, guava
3. Ensure the soil is well nourished
Your plants soak up all the nutrients they need from the soil, making it crucial that the soil is well nourished with the necessary fertilisers. Soil is U.A.E. is generally low in nutrients, so make use of fertilisers rich in nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.
Tip: You can also pour water used to cook vegetables or boil eggs – they’re loaded with water-soluble nutrients.
4. Water as necessary
Smaller containers need to have a hole at the bottom to allow excess water to drain. Soil in pots is likely to dry out faster, so they may need to be watered more frequently.
Tip: Insert a dry wooden chopstick into the soil near your plant, remove after ten minutes and check if the wood has dampened. If it’s dry, your soil needs water.
5. Keep an eye out for pests
As the weather changes, plants become more susceptible to fungus and insect attacks, so it’s a good idea to apply some fungicide.
Tip: For a chemical-free remedy, spray a solution of one litre water and one teaspoon of baking soda mixed with half a teaspoon of oil and a few drops of dish soap.
