ABSTRACT
Small-seeded crops are the backbone of vegetable and ornamental gardens. The practical cultivation of a range of small-seeded vegetable crops is described in detail. Some crops such as cabbage and lettuce benefit from protected propagation and transplanting. Healthy robust transplants are most effectively grown in modular trays where each plant is provided with a separated volume of compost. Techniques for sowing seed into modular trays are described together with the protective husbandry required. Crops such as beetroot, carrots and parsnips generally thrive best when sown directly into the garden. The processes involved for seed sowing in open ground, and the follow-up husbandry through to crop maturity is described and illustrated in detail.
Cold-sensitive crops require protected propagation as the means of ensuring a full cropping season. Courgettes and sweet corn are particularly useful garden crops but are cold-sensitive. Their husbandry under protection and following transplanting is described in detail. Practical information for sowing, growing and harvesting a large range of vegetable crops is provided.
Winter crops, such as leeks, are an especially valuable component of the garden. Seedling propagation, transplanting and subsequent husbandry are described.
For all these crops, soil health and quality are paramount in achieving high-yielding crops. These are achieved by careful manipulation of plant density, adequate nutrient and water supplies and removal of competition for resources by weeds, pests and diseases. The components of plant structure and how these have evolved into a wide range of forms found in vegetable, soft fruit and ornamental plants is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the interaction between genetic heritage of each plant and environmental factors resulting in visible plant form. Plant form and structure has considerable impact on the manner by which they are cultivated. Control of plant size and population density are of paramount importance for successful growing.
Details of the importance of light quality and the movement of water and products of photosynthesis are provided which amplify and extend the information given in earlier chapters. These biological processes have significant effects in determining the forms of husbandry used in the garden.
The nature and impact of weeds, pests and diseases is discussed with their integrated control which utilises combinations of methods. Weeds are differentiated into perennial and annual types which require varying forms of control. The presence of both causes competition diverting resources away from the needs of vegetable, soft fruit and ornamental plants. Integrating several methods of control for pests and diseases is more effective and promotes a sustainable environment in the garden. Each component of an integrated control programme is described. Shortages of nutrients and less frequently excesses will develop in gardens. Identifying specific causes of nutrient deficiency requires specialised knowledge and equipment. But gardeners should be aware of the general symptoms and potential remedies and these are described. Learning achievements are listed at the end of this chapter.
