VEGETABLE PATCHES A LOCKDOWN NECESSITY
VEGGIE patches have been the hobby of choice for Gold Coasters stuck at home during the coronavirus isolation period according to expert grower Chris Davis.
Treasurer of the Varsity Vegies Community Garden, Mr Davis said he has seen a huge interest in plots, with a waiting list for those wanting to claim their own patch.
“All of our beds are fully taken at the moment with many interested parties on our waiting list,” Mr Davis said.
“People seem like they want to become more selfsufficient over this time. I think they realise nothing can be taken for granted.”
The community garden which has been operating for more than a decade at the Jim Harris Park has 40 garden plots.
Each site is rented for a fee of around $25 a year, plus a deposit for the keys.
Those working on the garden regularly to maintain weeds and pests pay the continuous rate, but those who don’t tend their patch can see their fee increase.
An expert green thumb, Mr Davis has shared his best tips with local growers – and like any plant, it begins with the soil.
“You need good drainage and good soil, a mix of some organic matter like compost and regular water,” he said.
“Try to stick to organics for best results.”
Mr Davis said first-time veggie growers should be kind to themselves if their crop doesn’t make it to the plate.
“I usually sort of threaten them a bit, ‘grow you bugger or you are gone’,” he said.
“You put what you can in and hope for the best. There are so many variables.”
Mr Davis also advises patience with pests.
“Don’t expect to get everything back, you might need to share a little with some possums or bugs.
“We share our bananas with bats. Really it is all about keeping a close eye on it all and harvesting as soon as it is ready.”
He also advises newbies to try planting Asian vegetables, onions, peas and beets to get into the hang of it.
“My best tip is to always plant the same things on display at Bunnings – they sell what is in season to plant,” he said.
“If you want to beat the crowds and get the good stuff, pick seedlings up midweek, as soon as deliveries come in.”