Page 21 - IFV Issue 3_2024

Gardening

The vegetable patch
Chickpeas are grown around the
world in dry areas, so there’s no reason
why they won’t thrive in your garden,
even without pampering. The peas are
packed full of nutrients and energy.

Carrots are full of crispy deliciousness
because they are a store of food and
water to keep the plant going through
dry conditions. That said, they’ll taste
better if you do give them regular water.
Remember that carrots are a cool-
weather crop, so plant them in autumn.

Jerusalem artichokes produce
beautiful sunflower-like blooms on
stems up to 2m high. Once the plant has
died down in winter, a scrabble around
its base will reveal a treasure of edible
tubers. These allow the plant to survive
all conditions, and the following spring
you will have more green shoots poking
through the soil.

Okra is a plant that many of us aren’t
used to eating, never mind growing, but
it is as tough as it is delicious. Full sun,
well-draining soil and warm weather
will give you a great crop – you might
have to stake the plants if they grow too
tall.

For more information visit
www.lifeisagarden.co.za

The Villager • Issue 3 2024 • 19