Here are some vegetables to grow this October.
- Beans
Beans are healthy for us as well as our garden. We know from our social science class days that beans are one of the best nitrogen fixers and improve soil fertility. Beans have a delicate root system. Therefore, bean seeds need to be planted directly in a nutrient-rich potting mix or soil. Water on alternate days and provide partial to full sun, 4-7 hours a day. Mulch once the seeds have sprouted. The harvest should be ready in about forty days from the day of the plantation.
- Brinjal
Brinjals are a power house of anti-oxidants and iron. They are effective in reducing cholesterol levels. It takes about twenty days for seeds to germinate and brinjals become harvest-ready in approximately three months after seed germination. Crop yield can be increased by adding natural fertilizers rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. This hardy plant can be directly planted in soil with pH 6.3 and requires full sun. All varieties of brinjal seeds are well suited for containers as well as garden bed planting.
3.Coriander
Can you imagine a dish without the lush green leaves of coriander sprinkled on top? Or eating dal-chawal without coriander chutney? This staple herb of Indian foodhas many health benefits too. Coriander seeds should be planted at a spot which receives partial sun for about four to five hours. Avoid transplanting coriander. It is better to start from the seeds straight over repotting. Ensuring a regular watering routine is the key to health of coriander plant. The soil should be kept moist without over-draining or over-watering.
- Spinach
Spinach and brinjals make perfect companion plants. Saponin, a compound secreted by spinach roots, has antifungal properties. Growing spinach with this companion plant will build collaborative pest and weed resistance.
This immunity booster vegetable is ready to harvest in about 45 to 60 days. The crop grows well in partial sun and requires healthy soil with pH 7, rich in organic matter. Avoid overwatering.
- Cabbage
Cabbage tops the list of ‘easiest to grow’ leafy greens. Just sprinkle the seeds once you have prepared either of the growing medium with a simple soil mix. Add a thin top layer of soil and ensure regular watering. Cabbage needs to be transplanted. Ensure full sun, 6 to 7 hours, during the seed germination stage for healthy transplants. Watch out for pests. You can add some neem oil to keep unwanted insects away. Harvest will be ready in about three months.
- Peas
Peas seeds require a relatively cooler climate. Seeds may be planted towards the last week of the month. Transplanting can be dangerous due to delicate roots. It is best to sow pea seeds outdoors. Establish a small support system for vines with the help of a fence or trellis. Avoid any nitrogen-rich fertilizer as it enhances foliage growth but inhibits crop yield. Peas are ready to harvest in about 60 days.
- Lettuce
Lettuce seeds grow well in loamy, well-draining soil. Some vermicomposting may help to improve soil fertility. Lettuce seeds germinate in 7 to 9 days and will be harvest-ready in 45-50 days. Lettuce requires about 4 hours of sun in the initial 2 weeks. You may gradually increase to 6-7 hrs of sun a day. Always harvest lettuce in the morning. Or water the leaves about half-an hour before you are about to cut the leaves to retain freshness.