Plants in the Garden: Easy to Grow

Plants are all around us whether we realize it or not. Plants are in the mountains, deserts, oceans, taigas, grasslands, and the city. Growing plants gives a great opportunity for the grower to bond with nature. If you are a plant newbie this is the perfect place to start. First we have to understand that there are different types of plants. For example, there are cacti, fungi, shrubs, trees, air plants, etcetera. Understanding what type of  plant you have will help you give the plant proper care. With proper care, watering, light, and happiness plants should thrive.

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1. Lettuce
Lettuce is one of the more versatile plants. It is very simple to grow inside or outside. Lettuce can be grown in a row setting, potted, vertically, or even hydroponically. Lettuce can survive cooler temperatures however, it has a hard time with the heat. If it is desired to grow in summer, keep the lettuce out of direct sunlight and use partial shade. Growing in pots allows for better ability to move the plants around. Lettuce is my personal favorite because the grower can walk through the garden, pick some, and eat it. 

There are different types of lettuce. Some have stronger flavor, while others have milder to no taste. In my salads I like to have some of each type. Balancing the lettuce flavors, colors, and textures creates a crunchy, spicy, but delicious salad. Choosing the correct type of lettuce depends on the likes and dislikes of the grower. I recommend growing a big variety to get a variety of taste and nutrients. However, be aware of Iceberg Lettuce because it's mostly just water and no nutritional value.

2. Spinach
While spinach can still be considered in the same realm as lettuce, it is still a very interesting plant that I believed that should belong on this list. Just like lettuce, spinach can be grown in a row setting, hydroponically, potted, or vertically. That is what makes these leafy, green plants so unique. It is such a fun thing to explore the many ways a plant can be grown.

With the right care, nurture, water, light, and temperature spinach is very easy to grow. Pay attention to the leaves because spinach is very good at telling when it needs more water. Giving plants the correct care will ensure that they will thrive.

3. Cilantro
While spinach is still considered a type of lettuce, it is still a very interesting plant that I believed that should belong on this list. Just like lettuce, spinach can be grown in a row setting, hydroponically, potted, or vertically. 

With the right care, nurture, water, light, and temperature spinach is very easy to grow. Pay attention to the leaves because spinach is very good at telling when it needs more water.
This is a must have herb because of its versatility, which provides a good use in all cuisines of food. These plants put off a fragrant smell that will most likely remind you of a favorite Mexican dish.

4. Yukon Gold Potato
Potatoes are a surprising result to see on an easy grow list. Yukon Gold potatoes are very easy.  Plant potatoes in early spring, then harvest in summer time. Plant again after the first harvest to get more potatoes before the frost hits. Times vary by region and area. Water, sun, and fertilizer is all one needs to grow potatoes.

The reason why I love to grow potatoes is because it is a very unknown process. Since potatoes grow underground, as they are a tuber, it is hard to see the growing process. It's completely different then, let's say tomatoes that grow above the ground. The only way to monitor growth is by looking at the green growth that grows above the soil. Harvesting these tubers is a very satisfying process. It is sure comparable to opening a present on Christmas day.

5. Radishes and Beets
Radishes taste excellent on salads with carrots and leafy greens. Radishes are a cold hardy plant that can be started in mid to late spring. It only takes approximately 30 days from germination to harvest. Rotate and grow multiple harvests of radishes throughout  the season. Make sure to keep track of germination to harvest day because if you let too many days pass, the radishes will shrivel up. Beets are very intriguing because they can be used in a variety of settings. My personal favorite has to be pickled beets. They taste so good.

"Plants give us oxygen for the lungs and for the soul."
-Linda Solegato

Do not be afraid to try something new. Even if a crop fails, try a different variety. Every crop is different with different requirements. Always remember to check sew depth, harvest time, hardiness zones, and local weather information. 

The reason why I love to garden is the same every time. I love to take the risk and put my faith in both the earth and myself. The reward of watching seeds germinate when the crops harvest is very rewarding. Gardening is better than having a trophy in a sense that you bond with both nature and the plants themselves. 
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If all of these crops have been tried, then try some harder options. Carrots and melons are a little bit harder to grow. Don't ever feel too scared to pursue something that is hard. I assure that everything in regards to gardening is worth it.

"Gardening gives me a peace of mind in a sense that I am gaining an understanding of the world around me."
​-jettAV8R