Description: Lettuce is a leafy green vegetable often used in salads or as a garnish. It comes in various varieties, including iceberg, romaine, and leaf lettuce, each with its own flavor and texture.
Growing Conditions: Lettuce thrives in cool weather and prefers well-drained soil. It can be grown from seeds or seedlings and requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested as needed by picking outer leaves or by cutting the entire head when mature.
Radish:
Scientific Name: Raphanus sativus
Description: Radishes are root vegetables with a crisp texture and a peppery flavor. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, including red, white, and black.
Growing Conditions: Radishes prefer cooler temperatures and well-drained soil. They are fast-growing and can be sown directly into the garden.
Harvesting: Radishes are typically ready for harvest within a month of planting. They can be pulled from the ground when the roots are of the desired size.
Crimson - Cherry Belle (Radish Variety):
Description: Cherry Belle radishes are a specific variety known for their round, bright red roots. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and are often used in salads or as a garnish.
Growing Conditions: Crimson - Cherry Belle radishes thrive in cool weather conditions. They are best planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. These radishes prefer well-drained, loose soil with plenty of organic matter. They require regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Harvesting: Crimson - Cherry Belle radishes are typically ready for harvest about 22-30 days after planting, depending on growing conditions and desired size. They are usually harvested when they reach about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, although they can be left to grow larger if desired. To harvest, gently pull the radishes from the soil, taking care not to damage the roots. Harvesting can be done by pulling out individual radishes as needed or by thinning the crop to allow remaining radishes more room to grow.
Curry Leaf Plant:
Scientific Name: Murraya koenigii
Description: The curry leaf plant is a small tree or shrub native to India and Sri Lanka. It produces aromatic leaves used in Indian cuisine to add flavor to curries, soups, and other dishes.
Growing Conditions: Curry leaf plants prefer warm, tropical climates and well-drained soil. They can be grown from seeds or cuttings and require regular watering.
Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested as needed once the plant is established. Fresh leaves are most flavorful and can be used immediately or dried for later use.
Basil:
Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum
Description: Basil is a fragrant herb with tender leaves and a sweet, slightly peppery flavor. It is commonly used in Italian cuisine, particularly in pesto, as well as in Thai and other cuisines.
Growing Conditions: Basil thrives in warm, sunny conditions and well-drained soil. It can be grown from seeds or cuttings and requires regular watering.
Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested as needed by pinching off stems. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth.
Cilantro:
Scientific Name: Coriandrum sativum
Description: Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, is a pungent herb with delicate, lacy leaves and a citrusy flavor. Both the leaves and seeds (coriander) are used in cooking, particularly in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines.
Growing Conditions: Cilantro prefers cool weather and well-drained soil. It can be grown from seeds and requires regular watering.
Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested once the plant reaches a few inches in height. Both leaves and seeds can be harvested for culinary use.
Mint:
Scientific Name: Mentha spp.
Description: Mint is a perennial herb with fragrant, toothed leaves and a refreshing, cooling flavor. It comes in various varieties, including spearmint and peppermint, and is used in teas, cocktails, desserts, and savory dishes.
Growing Conditions: Mint thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It spreads quickly via underground stems (runners) and is often grown in containers to prevent it from taking over the garden.
Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested as needed throughout the growing season. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth.
Taro:
Scientific Name: Colocasia esculenta
Description: Taro is a tropical plant grown for its starchy tuber, which is a staple food in many cultures. It has large, heart-shaped leaves and produces underground corms that can be boiled, roasted, or fried.
Growing Conditions: Taro requires warm temperatures, high humidity, and well-drained, fertile soil. It can be grown in flooded fields or containers in areas with cooler climates.
Harvesting: Tubers can be harvested when the leaves start to yellow and die back. They should be cooked thoroughly before consumption to remove toxins.
Beets:
Scientific Name: Beta vulgaris
Description: Beets are root vegetables with a sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant red-purple color. They are often roasted, boiled, or pickled and can be eaten both raw and cooked.
Growing Conditions: Beets prefer cool weather and well-drained soil. They can be sown directly into the garden and require consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Harvesting: Both the roots and leaves of beets are edible. Roots can be harvested when they reach the desired size, while leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season.
Kale:
Scientific Name: Brassica oleracea var. acephala
Description: Kale is a leafy green vegetable with curly or flat leaves and a slightly bitter flavor. It is rich in nutrients, particularly vitamins A, C, and K, and is often used in salads, soups, smoothies, and stir-fries.
Growing Conditions: Kale thrives in cool weather and well-drained soil. It can be sown directly into the garden and requires regular watering.
Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested as needed by picking outer leaves or by cutting the entire plant when mature.
Tomatoes:
Scientific Name: Solanum lycopersicum
Description: Tomatoes are a popular fruit (often considered a vegetable) with juicy flesh and a tangy-sweet flavor. They come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, including red, yellow, and green.
Growing Conditions: Tomatoes prefer warm temperatures, full sun, and well-drained soil. They can be grown from seeds or seedlings and require regular watering and support (such as staking or trellising) as they grow.
Harvesting: Tomatoes can be harvested when they reach full color and are firm to the touch. They continue to ripen after being picked and can be stored at room temperature.
