When choosing a position for a vegetable garden there are several points to consider.
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Select a site that is relatively level and runs north/south.
Ideally it should be in an open area to obtain maximum sunlight but one that has protection from cold winds in winter and hot sun in summer.
The site will also need to be well-draining to allow a free root run and be well away from overhanging trees and the extensive root systems of hedges, large shrubs and trees.
Plant broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower seedlings into a well-drained, compost-enriched soil, preferably one that has been pre-limed prior to planting, in a position that gets at least six hours sun a day.
All at sea
Statice, or sea lavender as it otherwise known has attractive everlasting flowers on long stems in clusters that range in colours from white through yellow to rose, pink and blue.
Statice loves full sun and stands up to heat but must be grown in well-drained soil and does particularly well in seaside gardens.
In areas with acid soils it’s helpful to mix in some lime before planting.
When the flowers have fully opened stems can be cut, tied into bunches and hung upside down for a few weeks in a cool, dry place.
When dried the flowers can be used for gorgeous long-lasting arrangements that amazingly can keep their vibrant colours for many years.
Garden companions
Statice loves full sun ...
Companion planting describes growing plants together that appear to benefit each other either by repelling insects and diseases or simply like growing together.
As far back as the Roman Empire, the practice of companion planting was known to early gardeners and they were aware of the beneficial and adverse relationships between plants.
Some helpful combinations include planting garlic, chives, spearmint and nasturtiums to help keep aphids at bay and broad beans and potatoes planted near each other to inhibit pests that attack them.
Tomatoes, basil and parsley are good neighbours and beans like the company of carrots and cauliflowers. Beetroot grows well with silverbeet, lettuce, onions, cabbage and dwarf beans.
Lettuce, carrots, onions, cabbages, radishes marigolds and strawberries are best friends.
Celery, thyme and sage are reputed to deter the white cabbage butterfly because it dislikes their scents. To control nematodes plant white mustard and African marigolds.
Nasturtiums not only look colourful in the veggie garden but also act as a trap plant for aphids and are among the best attractors of predatory insects.