9 www.SmallFarmCanada.ca BENEFITS OF KEYHOLE GARDENING: They can be made exclusively from low-cost, locally available materials. They also require less labour and water than regular vegetable gardens. The keyhole structure ensures soil fertility for five to seven years supporting production of five or more varieties of vegetables at a time. Another advantage to keyhole gardening is flexibility. Because building the garden involves building up, it can be built on uneven terrain. It can also be positioned optimally to receive sunlight. TIP: MOST EXPERTS RECOMMEND KEEPING A HALF METRE FROM THE FIRST ROW OF PLANTS AND THE COMPOST BASKET TO PREVENT NUTRIENT OVERLOAD IN THE INNERMOST ROWS. benefits: • Grow homegrown fruit in small spaces – perfect for urban gardens, patios, and narrow yards. • Easier harvesting – No ladder required; fruit remains within arm’s reach. • Aesthetic appeal – A visually striking garden feature that combines function and artistry. BEST FRUIT TREES FOR ESPALIER Apple and pear trees are the most commonly espaliered varieties due to their flexible branches and adaptability. Apple trees are particularly popular because their new stems remain pliable longer than pears, making them easier to train. Note that spur-bearing apple trees are even better if you want more fruit from your living fence. Other great options for espalier include: • Peaches – A beautiful choice for espalier, producing fragrant blooms and delicious fruit. • Dwarf and semi-dwarf fruit trees – Ideal for small gardens and container growing. 1. WATERING A KEYHOLE GARDEN Water the garden in the centre through the compost basket. It is the main water source for the garden. If the soil surface is overly dry, some water can be directed through other means. 2. COMPOSTING Regular top up of the compost basket is required to maintain plant nutrition. Uncooked fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds, grass clippings, bread, dry oats and grains, leaves, and twigs are all good materials to use. Avoid composting cooked fruit and veg, oil or fat, meat and any plants infected with pests. Examine the compost basket structure after the first season and after that check regularly to see if it needs to be replaced. Source: GreenhouseCanada.com 1-800-387-RAIN Providing Irrigation Solutions since 1954. 2515 Pinegrove Road, Delhi ON N4B 2X1 www.vandenbussche.com Transplanters & Diggers Smart Farming Seeding Success
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