There are few things more satisfying than popping into the garden to pick fresh veggies for dinner. Whether you're doing it to save money, for better flavour, or just the satisfaction of growing your own, veggie gardening is a rewarding activity that suits almost every lifestyle block.
This article is your starting point. It covers the basics of setting up a vegetable garden in New Zealand and links to our practical guides on individual crops as part of the Down to the Ground series. If you're not sure when to plant or where to begin, read on.
Planning Your Garden
Sunlight and shelter are key. Most vegetables need at least 6 hours of sun a day, and you’ll get better results with some protection from wind. A north-facing site is ideal. If your spot gets the occasional frost, keep that in mind when planting.
Soil matters. The best gardens start with healthy soil. Add compost and well-rotted organic matter before planting, and avoid compacted or poorly drained areas. Raised beds can help, especially on clay soils, and they’re great for saving your back.
Water access is important. Set up a nearby hose or irrigation system so watering is easy, not a chore.
Start small. A couple of beds or a few square metres is plenty to begin with. It’s better to grow a few crops well than stretch yourself and get overwhelmed.
Watch for pests. While they’re not a big issue in some parts, my veggie gardens are now fully enclosed or I’m just feeding possums!
Know your region. I’d love to grow Brussels sprouts, but it just doesn’t work here in Northland. Make sure your local climate suits what you want to grow.
Getting started
We have a few expert gardeners whose writing will inspire you to get growing. Here are a few articles to get you started. There are many, many more so use the search in the menu bar or browse the articles here.
If it ain't in the ground, it ain't growing! This is very true - so get something in the ground!
Backing away from the supermarkets. Growing your own vegetables saves you money and stress. I mean, who actually enjoys supermarket shopping?
Hay - You'll Never Believe This! Grow potatoes without breaking your back!
If you’re not sure what to do when, our monthly gardening tasks will guide you through the seasons.
January in the garden
February in the garden
March in the garden
April in the garden
May in the garden
June in the garden
July in the garden
August in the garden
September in the garden
October in the garden
November in the garden
December in the garden
Tips for Success
Stagger your plantings.
Sow or plant a few of each crop every 2 to 3 weeks to avoid a glut. If you buy a punnet of leeks, they’ll all mature at once. Fifty leeks in one week is a lot! Better to sow a few seeds monthly and spread the harvest.
Check regularly for signs of trouble.
Early detection of slugs, snails, aphids and caterpillars means you can intervene before a full-blown infestation takes hold.
Water deeply, not daily.
Encourage deeper roots with a good soak rather than a quick sprinkle.
Feed your soil.
Compost, worm tea, seaweed and organic fertiliser all help plants thrive.
Rotate crops.
Don’t grow the same crop in the same spot each year. It helps avoid disease and nutrient loss. (Permanent crops like asparagus are the exception.)
Protect tender plants. In colder areas, use cloches, tunnel houses or cold frames.
Think About What You’ll Do With Your Crop
Preserve by freezing, bottling or drying. Share with friends and neighbours or sell at your local market if you’ve got excess.
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