Shelter for your Garden

In colder climates where winters can be cool, getting a crop of summer veges started early can be bit of a mission. Good shelter for your Garden on the prevailing wind side is imperative other wise you will end up with stunted plants that don't produce much at all.

If constructing a physical shelter isn't practical then you can consider "growing" your own shelter. Broad Beans are a winter-early Spring vegetables that grow anywhere from a half to a metre high, perfect for protecting your sensitive summer plants during that critical spring period.

Sow the Broad Beans in site on the wind ward side two-three months before you intend to plant out your summer garden.

If you have a large or long garden then sow three rows of Broad Beans (15cm apart) every 5-6 m across the plot to give continuous protection, you can even create "mini" gardens by make squares with the beans on all four sides.

If you are in a very windy site then you may need to support the first row of Beans as they are quite heavy, using them this way you will improve the health of your garden and if you like them (they are disgusting!) you will gain another crop to harvest.

Be Happy,

Barry.