Page 26 - Organic Gardening 3 Part Series

Indeed, garlic is full of beneficial nutrients and phytochemicals which have anti-

bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, before the discovery of
modern antibiotics, garlic was commonly used to treat wounds.

Garlic: Easy to grow, one clove can produce a head containing as many as 20
cloves! Although supermarket garlic gloves can be planted, it's best to buy garlic
bulbs from a reputable organic nursery. Going this route will also introduce you to
an amazing variety of garlic types. They prefer a warm, sunny spot. In Southern
areas, plant them in the fall, in colder areas, wait until spring.

Leeks: They're easy to grow in the right soil conditions but they need attention.
They are a transplanted crop which needs rich soil and a sunny location. They
have a long harvest season and will produce from fall through late winter.

Onions & Shallots: Can you imagine cooking
without onions? Probably not. Shallots are not as
well-known, but they are equally versatile in
cooking. They require cool conditions immediately

after planting, and warm, dry conditions once the
bulbs are maturing.

The cabbage family includes broccoli, cauliflower,
Brussels sprouts, collard greens, and bok choy.
They thrive in sunny spots with rich, firm soil.

Plants can be sown directly in your garden or indoors, or you can purchase
established plants at a nursery. These are cool weather crops, and all are
relatively easy to grow with the exception of cauliflower. Temperatures which are
too hot or too cold can prevent the head from developing at all.

Beans and peas are delicious and nutritious.
When served alongside a grain such as corn or
rice, legumes (as they are known) create a

complete protein which makes them the
perfect addition the garden of a vegan or
vegetarian.