Table Talk: April 14

Amy Pennington, on gardening

By Kim O'Donnel

April 7, 2011

(Editor’s note: This chat is over, but the transcript is available to read here. And join Kim for another Table Talk chat soon.)

On Thursday, April 14, at 10 a.m. PT, 1 p.m. ET, Kim O’Donnel welcomes Amy Pennington to the chat. Amy, author of Urban Pantry, has just published her second book, Apartment Gardening, and she’s ready to discuss any and all questions you might have about growing food.

(Or bring cooking questions; two of Amy’s recipes, for Carrot-Coconut Milk Soup and Steeping Fruit, were recently featured on Culinate.)

Amy Pennington

Kim, a trained chef, journalist, and cookbook author, hosts the one-hour Table Talk chats a couple of times each month. Sign up below to receive an email reminder of next week’s chat.

See you Thursday, right here.

Table Talk with Kim O'Donnel - April 14, 2011

(04/14/2011)

  

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9:45	Kim ODonnel:  Coming up at the top of the hour: Edible gardening with author Amy Pennington. Join us! Thursday April 14, 2011 9:45 Kim ODonnel

10:00

Kim ODonnel:  Hey Folks! Really excited to have Amy Pennington back for another chat. As you may know, she's the author of Urban Pantry, and just this month launched a new book, Apartment Gardening. Amy is on hand for the next hour to dish up trips and tricks for spring planting, no matter how limited your growing space is. Let's roll! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:00 Kim ODonnel

10:00

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  SO happy this chat is back and awesome to have Amy on again! Congrats on the new book Amy; it's definitely something I'm interested in. Here in DC spring is finally here. It's been raining practically every day, but today is 70 and sunny. Currently, I am jonesing for my farmer's market to start back up - it had by this time last year, but a scheduled start date has not yet been posted this year, so I'm not sure what's going on. Other than that, waiting till the end of the month to start up my balcony garden - cherry tomatoes and herbs. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:00 Lizka

10:01

Kim ODonnel:  Hey Lizka, it's been a soggy early start to spring here in Seattle too. I have spinach and kale seedlings in containers outside & waiting patiently for the sun to appear...Amy what do you have growing at this point in the season? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:01 Kim ODonnel

10:02

amypennington:  Kim, how is YOUR garden this year? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:02 amypennington

10:02

amypennington:  Thank you for having me back! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:02 amypennington

10:02

amypennington:  Hi Lizka - thanks! The book just came out, so I hope it is good timing. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:02 amypennington

10:02

amypennington:  Seattle is cold cold cold - I kind of hate it Thursday April 14, 2011 10:02 amypennington

10:03

Kim ODonnel:  Well, I've got these two big ole pots with arugula & kale seedlings, crossing fingers. And I just bought some parsley seeds...mint looks dead from last year, but will it come back? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:03 Kim ODonnel

10:03

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  lizka, jealous you have a balcony! all i can get is a sunny window that i have to protect from 3.5 & 15 mo old curious fingers. though 3.5 yo is totally into growing things. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:03 alisoncsmith

10:03

amypennington:  All of my herbs are back for the year - thyme, tarragon, lovage, mint, lemon balm Thursday April 14, 2011 10:03 amypennington

10:04

Kim ODonnel:  Will mint come back or is it possible that it died from all of that water over the winter? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:04 Kim ODonnel

10:04

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I'm here! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:04 Jeanne in Seattle

10:04

Kim ODonnel:  Hey Jeanne! Are you growing anything new this spring? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:04 Kim ODonnel

10:04

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  amy, wondering about potting/repotting little plants indoors. what are good edible plants to do only indoors (and that wouldn't be an issue if my beans got into them by accident?) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:04 alisoncsmith

10:04

amypennington:  Mint should come back - with vigor! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:04 amypennington

10:04

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Ah mint - I have my plant (in about 6-7in pot) from last year which I cut back hard at the end of the season and now it has long leggy tendrils. If I actually want mint leaves this season, I'm guessing I should get a new plant, right? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:04 Lizka

10:05

amypennington:  I also started a pot of arugula about three weeks ago. Those are about 3" tall now Thursday April 14, 2011 10:05 amypennington

10:05

Kim ODonnel:  Amy my arugula seedlings are about half that size but they are coming up. Please sun baby, please... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:05 Kim ODonnel

10:05

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I get a slow start every time spring is so cold and dreary like this spring has been. We had hail yesterday! I usually do lettuce, but haven't started that yet. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:05 Jeanne in Seattle

10:06

amypennington:  Yes, spring has not been kind in Seattle. Patience is a virtue! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:06 amypennington

10:06

amypennington:  And you shouldn't forget to water Thursday April 14, 2011 10:06 amypennington

10:06

Kim ODonnel:  My herbs really took a beating this winter. Normally my rosemary sticks it out but it doesn't have a green needle anywhere. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:06 Kim ODonnel

10:06

amypennington:  Oh, Jeanne has a big ol garden! Is your asparagus up? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:06 amypennington

10:07

Kim ODonnel:  Okay, give us the scoop: 5 plants you can put in containers for spring. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:07 Kim ODonnel

10:07

amypennington:  Rosemary does die in cold winters often Thursday April 14, 2011 10:07 amypennington

10:07

amypennington:  check the main stem for any green nodes of new growth Thursday April 14, 2011 10:07 amypennington

10:07

amypennington:  Thyme is just starting to come on Thursday April 14, 2011 10:07 amypennington

10:08

Kim ODonnel:  Oh good to know, Amy. Although I'm seeing some shades of green on stem...And my thyme looks dreadful Thursday April 14, 2011 10:08 Kim ODonnel

10:08

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Hi Amy! Actually, I don't have asparagus (yet). I think during our last chat, I was thinking of turning some of my other veggie sapce into asparagus. Haven't done it yet! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:08 Jeanne in Seattle

10:08

amypennington:  5 plants for spring: Forellenschluss lettuce, mint, thyme, mache & Thursday April 14, 2011 10:08 amypennington

10:08

amypennington:  thinking about a good 5th one ........ - PEAS! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:08 amypennington

10:08

amypennington:  duh Thursday April 14, 2011 10:08 amypennington

10:09

Kim ODonnel:  Really, peas in a container? Wow. Hear that folks? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:09 Kim ODonnel

10:09

Kim ODonnel:  Now is it too late to get these plants into pots -- or is there still time? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:09 Kim ODonnel

10:09

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  how 'bout 5 plants for indoors only? please, pretty please? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:09 alisoncsmith

10:09

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  My artichoke bit the dust this winter. Sigh. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:09 Jeanne in Seattle

10:09

Kim ODonnel:  Wow Jeanne, you had an artichoke plant? Did it ever produce? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:09 Kim ODonnel

10:09

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Amy: Ooo, I love that lettuce! So good. I love planting many types of lettuce. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:09 Jeanne in Seattle

10:09

amypennington:  Alison - what do you mean by "repot indoors"? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:09 amypennington

10:10

amypennington:  Peas are great for right now, and they are shallow rooted plants so do well in containers Thursday April 14, 2011 10:10 amypennington

10:10

Kim ODonnel:  I don't think I've ever had the pleasure of Forellenschluss lettuce (boy that's a mouthful)... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:10 Kim ODonnel

10:11

Kim C.:  Hi everyone! The idea of peas in a container sounds great. The question of pea weevils came up recently on a Culinate post about shelling peas. If you know anything about how to avoid or treat those, Amy, please tell. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:11 Kim C.

10:11

Kim ODonnel:  I may have to step on that. Love the idea of growing some peas -- and having pea shoots for salad! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:11 Kim ODonnel

10:11

amypennington:  A large round terra cotta pot is typically about 16" across and that can hold 5 or 6 vines - though that is planting quite dense. And will need to be fertilized in a few weeks with a nice mix of nitrogren (Particularly if you want to saute vines) and phosphorus Thursday April 14, 2011 10:11 amypennington

10:12

amypennington:  forellenschluss is a speckled romaine - it is the lettuce on the cover of Apartment Gardening - the new book. Gorgeous stuff Thursday April 14, 2011 10:12 amypennington

10:12

Kim ODonnel:  Great tip. That may be my weekend project. At this point in the season, do you recommend indoor seedlings or go straight into pots. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:12 Kim ODonnel

10:12

Kim ODonnel:  Oh, lovely! That pot isn't even very big! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:12 Kim ODonnel

10:13

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  i have had little "starter kits" that i've found good for getting my beans (kids) interested in growing. but a lot of them seem to have to be repotted quickly, and often outdoors, vice ones we can keep growing indoors (we don't even have a balcony) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:13 alisoncsmith

10:13

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Amy - also about my mint, should I do some pruning of the tendrils so that a few will get big and strong to produce or do I just let it go? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:13 Lizka

10:13

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  The thing about peas is that it's always so much fuss to get them trained up on the trellis, etc. And then you get a tiny amount for the fuss. My husband is a pea lover, but I gave up on them. I'm a wus. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:13 Jeanne in Seattle

10:13

amypennington:  Indoor seedlings are really good for either either a 1) an experiment 2) kids 3)people with large gardens Thursday April 14, 2011 10:13 amypennington

10:14

Kim ODonnel:  Gotcha. Just go for the gusto, in other words... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:14 Kim ODonnel

10:14

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I love all of the speckled lettuces. They are pretty and so yummy! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:14 Jeanne in Seattle

10:14

amypennington:  For anyone growing in an apartment, I am assuming space is limited, so I wouldn't bother with a start tray. Just grab from a nursery or seed direct and watch it grow Thursday April 14, 2011 10:14 amypennington

10:15

amypennington:  Jeanne - peas will train themselves up a little teepee in a pot - they just need early support and then BOOM Thursday April 14, 2011 10:15 amypennington

10:15

Kim ODonnel:  I'm loving the idea of those lettuces, too. How soon can we have salad? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:15 Kim ODonnel

10:15

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I'm a major fan of square foot gardening. You can cram a whole lot into a small space. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:15 Jeanne in Seattle

10:15

amypennington:  Lizka - is your mint just coming up? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:15 amypennington

10:15

amypennington:  Mint is SO vigorous you could cut back and it would grow back. Are you growing in a pot? And what do you mean by "tendrils"? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:15 amypennington

10:16

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Amy: OK, I will try peas again. My husband thanks you! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:16 Jeanne in Seattle

10:16

Kim ODonnel:  Jeanne, think of the risotto you can make! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:16 Kim ODonnel

10:16

amypennington:  Alison - ok I understand. So.........growing indoors (although everyone loves to tell you different) is a challenge. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:16 amypennington

10:16

amypennington:  So, let's talk about growing INDOORS for a minute Thursday April 14, 2011 10:16 amypennington

10:16

Kim ODonnel:  Yes, PLEASE.... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:16 Kim ODonnel

10:17

amypennington:  Plants need light, plain and simple. Lots of indoor spaces do not allow for much light. A southern facing window is best. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:17 amypennington

10:17

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  It's actually been growing for many months inside; I kept having to cut it back over the winter because it kept coming in the long tendrils. Now it's outside so I've just been letting it go. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:17 Lizka

10:17

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Also, you can grow potatoes in a large pot. I did that one summer when I was living in my apartment. Then I had friends over for potatoes. They laughed at me. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:17 Jeanne in Seattle

10:17

amypennington:  because the earths axis makes us tip in a way that south-facing windows provide the most sun. if you only have north facing - either a) forget it or b) you need grow lights Thursday April 14, 2011 10:17 amypennington

10:18

amypennington:  Alison - how is your sun? Do you have light in the windows all day? (even ambient?) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:18 amypennington

10:18

Kim ODonnel:  Jeanne, I saw an amazing potato garden in a trash can last summer. Quite inspiring. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:18 Kim ODonnel

10:18

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Yes, growing in a pot - about 6-7in. Tendrils = very LONG, very skinny - only tiny little growths on them. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:18 Lizka

10:18

amypennington:  MMMmmmm - I wonder what mint variety you have Thursday April 14, 2011 10:18 amypennington

10:19

amypennington:  if you can share a pic, that would be rad Thursday April 14, 2011 10:19 amypennington

10:19

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  yay! thank you. i assumed it was difficult. we happen to have some really good south facing windows with pretty decent light all day - reflects off the building (one of which starts at the floor), but i find that at some point, stuff outgrows its teeny tiny plants. i'd honestly settle for herbs. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:19 alisoncsmith

10:19

amypennington:  mint doesn't "tendril" so I'm having a hard time visualizing. Sounds like maybe the stem is long, but just has a few green nodes/buds? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:19 amypennington

10:19

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Not sure what variety and am at work right now, so can't share a picture. :( Thursday April 14, 2011 10:19 Lizka

10:19

amypennington:  Alison - great Thursday April 14, 2011 10:19 amypennington

10:19

amypennington:  Ok, so YES - you can not grow food like that in small 5" pots Thursday April 14, 2011 10:19 amypennington

10:20

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  that would be teeny tiny pots. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:20 alisoncsmith

10:20

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  When I lived in an apartment, there was landscaping around the building. I asked the superintendent if I could use some to plant veggies. He said yes. So, I culitvated a little plot in a corner. The other tenants would come out and cherr me on. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:20 Jeanne in Seattle

10:20

amypennington:  Contrary to what everyone tells you, of course. By growing in a very small container, you inhibit the root structure of a plant and therefore, its ability to grow. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:20 amypennington

10:21

amypennington:  Now, sometimes, it doesn't really matter, b/c you don't need a LOT of a plant - as in the case of windowsill herb pots - basil, thyme, chives - we see these ideas/kits often in the marketplace Thursday April 14, 2011 10:21 amypennington

10:21

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, if I've learned anything from you, it's to use a larger pot for growing than assumed. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:21 Kim ODonnel

10:21

amypennington:  LARGER POTS! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:21 amypennington

10:21

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  we're working on that, jeanne. i happen to be on the board, and there's some community interest in a garden, but doubt it'll take off this year Thursday April 14, 2011 10:21 alisoncsmith

10:21

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, you've got some really cool ideas for planters in your book...can you share? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:21 Kim ODonnel

10:21

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Yes, long stem (just keeps growing and growing) and very tiny if any growths of the stems. I wonder how is it supposed to support the growths when the stems keep growing and growing, taking all the energy. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:21 Lizka

10:22

amypennington:  It is really a challenge, as media and even experts need to tell a story and they pitch this idea around like "it's easy! no space? no problem!" but it really isn't true for those of us that REALLY want to grow something and produce food Thursday April 14, 2011 10:22 amypennington

10:23

Kim ODonnel:  Such a good point, Amy. It's a serious buzzkill if your herb pots don't produce alll b/c of pot size... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:23 Kim ODonnel

10:23

amypennington:  OK, Lizka - let me think about this for a minute. It is my inclination to say just leave it be. When you prune a plant, you're basically cutting off the energy to the outer reaches and redirecting energy. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:23 amypennington

10:23

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  but is a bigger pot always better? and the herb kits...well, do those ever need to be replanted into bigger pots? based on what you're typing, i'm guessing yes? is there a point at which we need to find someone to adopt them into an outdoor garden? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:23 alisoncsmith

10:23

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  so to summarize, i can grow a few herbs, but probably not any "food." on target? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:23 alisoncsmith

10:23

amypennington:  But...it is also spring, so I think you should just leave it for awhile and see - let the plant do it's thing Thursday April 14, 2011 10:23 amypennington

10:24

amypennington:  Hi Alison - yes and no Thursday April 14, 2011 10:24 amypennington

10:24

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  to make a non-food leap, but to help me understand, why do houseplants work (for the most part) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:24 alisoncsmith

10:24

amypennington:  Bigger pots just allow a plant to come to full maturity Thursday April 14, 2011 10:24 amypennington

10:24

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Yeah, that's been what I've been doing ever since I put it outside - just leave it. Thanks, for the opinion, Amy. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:24 Lizka

10:25

amypennington:  Some plants, you don't really NEED them to come to full maturity. Lovage, an herb, is a great example of this. At full maturity in the ground, it can easily grow to 5 feet! but I only need a few tablespoons now and again, so.............a pot is perfect. Only gets 10" high. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:25 amypennington

10:25

amypennington:  That is why you often see herb/windowsill kits - because really..............how many chives can one family use? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:25 amypennington

10:26

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Alison - bigger pots don't need to be that much bigger for herbs. Yes, bigger will be better, but for your purposes, just look for medium size pots. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:26 Lizka

10:26

Kim ODonnel:  So can we talk dirt? What's your rec for mix/fertilizer and such, partic. if you don't have compost pile handy... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:26 Kim ODonnel

10:26

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  would love love love to have lovage. it's a traditional romanian flavor (my in-laws), and crazy difficult to find in stores Thursday April 14, 2011 10:26 alisoncsmith

10:26

amypennington:  So a small pot works and is "productive" for our needs. But if you let that plant grow outside, it is a whole other beast! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:26 amypennington

10:27

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Kim: don't forget that you can buy compost in bags (at least here in Seattle) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:27 Jeanne in Seattle

10:27

amypennington:  Alison - for houseplants - just to wrap your head around it, we often don't want them to get big and produce. They are what they are. They don't "grow" persay, we just keep them alive. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:27 amypennington

10:27

amypennington:  Kim - for pots, a potting mix is crucial. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:27 amypennington

10:27

Kim ODonnel:  Jeanne, yep, I'm good on that front. I guess what I want to know is, how much compost to potting mix... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:27 Kim ODonnel

10:27

amypennington:  It is lighter in weight & drains well Thursday April 14, 2011 10:27 amypennington

10:27

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  my dear husband's going to roll his eyes, but i'm going to march over to our local nursery next week and get a few medium-small pots to keep a few herbs alive ;-) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:27 alisoncsmith

10:28

Kim ODonnel:  Right on, Alison! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:28 Kim ODonnel

10:28

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  btw, this is great! really helpful! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:28 alisoncsmith

10:28

amypennington:  I have the same potting soil in my pots from years ago - can't even recall how long - and ever year, I simply amend with a top dressing of compost from the store. one bag will last all season. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:28 amypennington

10:28

Kim ODonnel:  That is such a helpful tip, Amy. I prob. overdid it w/ the compost recently... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:28 Kim ODonnel

10:29

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  johnson's, here i come (for you dc folks!) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:29 alisoncsmith

10:29

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Keep us updated Alison - this is how I started too, just have fun and if something dies, oh well, live and learn. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:29 Lizka

10:29

amypennington:  Alison - go check out Apartment Gardening on amazon.com - not for a sales pitch (promise!) but b/c there is a long narrow pot on the cover that would be PERFECT for a windowsill. Buy in plastic and spraypaint if you like. JUST MAKE SURE you have a long tray of some kind under it for catching water! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:29 amypennington

10:29

amypennington:  Well, you have to think about WHY you're adding stuff to your pots, you know? Like..........why did you add compost? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:29 amypennington

10:30

amypennington:  Probably b/c it always sounds like such a great idea and everyone sings the praises of compost! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:30 amypennington

10:30

Kim ODonnel:  i'm looking at the cover right now -- and she's right -- great size. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:30 Kim ODonnel

10:30

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, I guess I was thinking it would enrich the soil, blah blah blah. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:30 Kim ODonnel

10:30

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  will do...and now...to find a windowsill. 1952 modern luxury buildings apparently didn't really come with them Thursday April 14, 2011 10:30 alisoncsmith

10:30

amypennington:  But, really, compost helps hold in moisture (awesome for potted plants that tend to dry out quickly) and also adds some nutrients. So a little sprinkling around the plants base each time a new start is coming up is perfect. Then you can fork it in as time goes on. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:30 amypennington

10:31

Kim ODonnel:  Okay, cool. Now how often to fertilize? You always talk of nitrogen and phosphorus... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:31 Kim ODonnel

10:32

amypennington:  Alison - you can build a shelf just under your window that folds down over winter Thursday April 14, 2011 10:32 amypennington

10:32

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  oooh! so i should be composting my houseplants, too - or rather, adding compost to the pot? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:32 alisoncsmith

10:32

amypennington:  It does enrich the soil, for sure Thursday April 14, 2011 10:32 amypennington

10:32

amypennington:  and compost is a GREAT thing for potted plants. I have had friends change out their soil and stuff, and that is not super necessary (at least for a couple of years) if you amend with compost Thursday April 14, 2011 10:32 amypennington

10:33

amypennington:  Fertilizing - the evasive gardening trick! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:33 amypennington

10:33

amypennington:  So, fertilizer is hard, because it depends on both the plant and the start. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:33 amypennington

10:33

Kim ODonnel:  Please enlighten us, wise one... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:33 Kim ODonnel

10:33

amypennington:  As a general rule of thumb.........OH STOP! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:33 amypennington

10:34

Kim ODonnel:  You're the dirt diva! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:34 Kim ODonnel

10:34

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I'm like you, Amy. I have several plants (including a rose) that have been in pots for years and I just top dress w/compost each year. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:34 Jeanne in Seattle

10:34

amypennington:  So....fertilizer Thursday April 14, 2011 10:34 amypennington

10:34

amypennington:  in general, as a rule of thumb, after a few weeks of a plant being in a pot (right about when it has 3 or 4 sets of leaves) I will fertilize Thursday April 14, 2011 10:34 amypennington

10:35

amypennington:  For leafy greens, I use about a teaspoon of nitrogen-heavy fert in small pots and about a tablespoon in large pots Thursday April 14, 2011 10:35 amypennington

10:35

amypennington:  and that is it! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:35 amypennington

10:35

Kim ODonnel:  Really? That's it? Coffee grounds, ever? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:35 Kim ODonnel

10:35

amypennington:  unless the plant starts showing signs of stress in some way - leaves change color, doesn't grow much, etc - then I try and address the specific issues Thursday April 14, 2011 10:35 amypennington

10:35

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  sounds like i need to go get me some compost. (if i'm adding herbs to the house, no way we'll have room for compost pile) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:35 alisoncsmith

10:35

amypennington:  yeah, totally - you can add coffee grinds! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:35 amypennington

10:35

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Can I just say that I "fertilze" with tons of compost and chicken manure? That's it. Roses, too. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:35 Jeanne in Seattle

10:36

Kim ODonnel:  And then how often do you fertilize? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:36 Kim ODonnel

10:36

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  what do the grinds do? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:36 alisoncsmith

10:36

amypennington:  Coffee grinds are a nitrogen-rich fertilizer Thursday April 14, 2011 10:36 amypennington

10:37

amypennington:  So, they add some nutrients AND have the added bonus of slug barrier if anyone has pots on the ground Thursday April 14, 2011 10:37 amypennington

10:37

Kim ODonnel:  that would be me... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:37 Kim ODonnel

10:37

amypennington:  Just once, Kim. I fertilize once and then watch the plants Thursday April 14, 2011 10:37 amypennington

10:37

Kim ODonnel:  And then if they're not progressing, add more? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:37 Kim ODonnel

10:37

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I fancy myself a pioneer gal w/no access to fancy-schmancy fertilizers. That, and I got tired of mixing my organic fertilizer mix each year. I just fertilize in late winter/early spring and then in mid summer. Or not. Whatever I get to. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:37 Jeanne in Seattle

10:38

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  well, then...coffee at home in the morning, here i come! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:38 alisoncsmith

10:38

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  once we're done w/ fertilizing, can we talk a little about watering? i always get frustrated w/ my MIL for what i think is overwatering plants, but hers seem to be flourishing and mine seems to be, well, alive Thursday April 14, 2011 10:38 alisoncsmith

10:38

amypennington:  Jeanne - I use chicken manure and compost, too. Nearly exclusively, but potted plants get extra phosphorus from me if it is a fruiting plant Thursday April 14, 2011 10:38 amypennington

10:38

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Also, you can usually get spent coffee grounds from stores like Starbucks. Just ask. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:38 Jeanne in Seattle

10:39

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  My neighbor is the king of coffee grounds. He knows when all of the cafes in the area put them out. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:39 Jeanne in Seattle

10:40

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  i'm saving 'em all from now on! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:40 alisoncsmith

10:41

amypennington:  Alison, you won't need many. We're talking 1 or 2 pots of coffee and you'll be good. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:41 amypennington

10:41

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, you touch on nitrogen, phosporus and potassium for fertilizers. Do you need a mix of all 3 or is 1 out of 3 okay? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:41 Kim ODonnel

10:41

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  so is there any trick to repotting things? i've heard rumors about some plants being sensitive, etc. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:41 alisoncsmith

10:41

amypennington:  I'm having server issues Thursday April 14, 2011 10:41 amypennington

10:41

amypennington:  sorry for the long delay! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:41 amypennington

10:42

Kim ODonnel:  No worries! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:42 Kim ODonnel

10:42

amypennington:  We are talking about growing in pots, now, just to be clear Thursday April 14, 2011 10:42 amypennington

10:42

amypennington:  So, I don't often mix 3 in one Thursday April 14, 2011 10:42 amypennington

10:42

Kim ODonnel:  fertilizers, you mean? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:42 Kim ODonnel

10:42

amypennington:  Because different fertilizer/nutrients are used for different reasons. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:42 amypennington

10:43

amypennington:  So, I don't need to dump a bunch of nitrogen in a tomato plant pot, lets say, because I don't WANT vigorous green growth, I want fruit, so I would lay low on the nitrogen and beef up the phosphorus Thursday April 14, 2011 10:43 amypennington

10:44

amypennington:  on the other hand, if I'm growing peas, let's say, for pea vines, I wouldn't lay low on phosphorus and beef up on nitrogen, so the greens are good and strong Thursday April 14, 2011 10:44 amypennington

10:44

amypennington:  make sense? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:44 amypennington

10:44

Kim ODonnel:  So, when you plant, do a little research on which fertilizer is best for which species... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:44 Kim ODonnel

10:44

amypennington:  (an on another note, if I were growing strictly for pea vines, I would go about it a completely different way - more on that in an upcoming blog) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:44 amypennington

10:44

amypennington:  Well, yes and now Thursday April 14, 2011 10:44 amypennington

10:45

amypennington:  Yes and no, rather Thursday April 14, 2011 10:45 amypennington

10:46

amypennington:  As a rule of thumb, Nitrogen supports leafy green growth in plants Thursday April 14, 2011 10:46 amypennington

10:46

amypennington:  Phosphorus promotes both fruiting and flowering Thursday April 14, 2011 10:46 amypennington

10:46

Kim ODonnel:  Hear that, folks? Take note, post it on the fridge! I know I am. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:46 Kim ODonnel

10:46

amypennington:  (and also lends a hand in strong roots growth and sometimes disease fighting) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:46 amypennington

10:47

Kim ODonnel:  And Alison, coffee grounds offer the nitrogen... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:47 Kim ODonnel

10:47

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Also, there are reputable organic fertilizer blends that are designed for each different use: veggies, flowers, greens,e tc. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:47 Jeanne in Seattle

10:47

amypennington:  Potassium is a all around general nutrient - makes healthy cell walls and increases resistance to weather and disease Thursday April 14, 2011 10:47 amypennington

10:48

amypennington:  So.................you don't decide based on plant 'species', as you mentioned, Kim. You decide fertilizer based on how YOU WANT the plant to grow. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:48 amypennington

10:48

Kim ODonnel:  Gotcha. This human could use some potassium... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:48 Kim ODonnel

10:49

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  so i can use those bananas my beans never ate on my plants? ;-) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:49 alisoncsmith

10:49

amypennington:  Jeanne, they do sell those fertilizers, but I tend not to like them. They are always too heavy on one thing and not enough of another and here is the thing..................if your plant/pot doesn't use and absorb the nutrients - IT GETS WASHED AWAY Thursday April 14, 2011 10:49 amypennington

10:49

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  VERY helpful (on fertilizing) - thanks Amy. I wrote it down too. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:49 Lizka

10:49

amypennington:  And for those of us in Seattle who complain about seaweed in Lake Washington............guess what? Nitrogen, baby. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:49 amypennington

10:50

Kim ODonnel:  Good source of potassium for those plants?? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:50 Kim ODonnel

10:50

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Amy: true. I usually only buy one for roses and then I use it quite sparingly. Side dressing. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:50 Jeanne in Seattle

10:51

amypennington:  kelp Thursday April 14, 2011 10:51 amypennington

10:51

amypennington:  Kelp meal - you can buy at most nurseries (or harvest your own!) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:51 amypennington

10:51

Kim ODonnel:  Excellent! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:51 Kim ODonnel

10:51

amypennington:  I should also note, that potassium is an AWESOME fertilizer to add to your plants Thursday April 14, 2011 10:51 amypennington

10:52

Kim ODonnel:  So recap: LARGER pots, plenty of sun (and a prayer), good potting mix & a layer of compost, a wee bit of fertilizer --what else? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:52 Kim ODonnel

10:52

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  So many people used to go to the beach and drag home the seaweed for their gardens. I'm not sure if they let you do that much anymore. Unless you live on the beach. Ahem, Ms. O'Donnel. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:52 Jeanne in Seattle

10:52

amypennington:  so with a teaspoon or tablespoon of fertilizer (N or P) I add a heaping tablespoon of kelp for Potassium. It is hard to over fertilize with potassium (K) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:52 amypennington

10:52

Kim ODonnel:  Ah, yes. Come by and we'll harvest some seaweed! I never thought to do that... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:52 Kim ODonnel

10:52

[Comment From Lizka Lizka : ]  Awesome chat today. Thanks all - I gotta run to a meeting. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:52 Lizka

10:53

amypennington:  You also need LIGHT and WATER Thursday April 14, 2011 10:53 amypennington

10:53

amypennington:  You need permits to harvest, I believe. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:53 amypennington

10:53

Kim ODonnel:  I forgot the water. Of course. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:53 Kim ODonnel

10:53

amypennington:  Ciao, Lizka! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:53 amypennington

10:53

amypennington:  Keep me posted on your mint and send pics - I'm so curious! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:53 amypennington

10:53

Kim ODonnel:  I know I'm feeling inspired to plant some more. Who's planting this weekend? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:53 Kim ODonnel

10:54

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, what are you secrets for finding cheap pots? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:54 Kim ODonnel

10:54

amypennington:  I am in the process of hardening off starts - my little apartment looks like a place that has plants Thursday April 14, 2011 10:54 amypennington

10:54

amypennington:  I can't think of the name Thursday April 14, 2011 10:54 amypennington

10:54

amypennington:  ATRIUM! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:54 amypennington

10:55

Kim ODonnel:  an atrium isn't such a bad thing to be... Thursday April 14, 2011 10:55 Kim ODonnel

10:55

amypennington:  Cheap pots - we have a good asparagus season in Wa. I go around to restaurants and take the crappy wooden crates they pack asparagus in Thursday April 14, 2011 10:55 amypennington

10:55

amypennington:  And I also like using plastic pots - they are cheap, light, and I spray paint them big bold colors for a little visual oomph Thursday April 14, 2011 10:55 amypennington

10:55

amypennington:  Helps in winter when everything is d.e.a.d. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:55 amypennington

10:56

Kim ODonnel:  Spray painting pots is a grand idea. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:56 Kim ODonnel

10:56

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  I'm going to clean up the veggie garden this weekend. Get it into fertile shape! :) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:56 Jeanne in Seattle

10:56

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  I'm here! Not planting this weekend (because, you know, we're going to have more rain), but staking out the garden plot. Kale, beans, all kinds of herbs, and we'll be buying tomato plants. Going to line up a delivery of mushroom compost for May, then will be borrowing the neighbor's rototiller. (whew!) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:56 Erin

10:56

amypennington:  An easy project - great for kids, too - (hint, hint Alison) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:56 amypennington

10:56

Kim ODonnel:  Erin, you are BUSY! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:56 Kim ODonnel

10:56

amypennington:  Erin, where do you live? Thursday April 14, 2011 10:56 amypennington

10:56

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  me me me! [raises hand a la welcome back kotter] but have to wait til next week. methinks symbolism of easter = good time for planting Thursday April 14, 2011 10:56 alisoncsmith

10:57

Kim ODonnel:  Alison, Easter/Passover are wonderfully symbolic times to plant anew. Yes! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:57 Kim ODonnel

10:57

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Alison: Ooo, Ooo, Ooo. LOL! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:57 Jeanne in Seattle

10:57

amypennington:  I am going to stress out about all of my gardens this weekend! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:57 amypennington

10:57

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  definitely - my 3.5 yo loves arty things as much as she loves cooking (side to kim - broke new veggie ground with liking vegan butternut squash soup last night!) Thursday April 14, 2011 10:57 alisoncsmith

10:58

Kim ODonnel:  Bravo, Alison! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:58 Kim ODonnel

10:58

amypennington:  Weather is not cooperating with a May 18th dinner I'm growing for - bah. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:58 amypennington

10:58

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  I live in Central PA - today is the first sunny day in weeks. Been out in the sun, just wrangled 2 down for naps... time for me to grab some chow! I've been waiting for our daffodills to bloom. Maybe tomorrow when... it'll be cold and raining yet again. Can't wait to get my toes into the dirt! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:58 Erin

10:58

amypennington:  Ah, ok - good for you Thursday April 14, 2011 10:58 amypennington

10:58

amypennington:  We can't put out tomatoes until after Memorial Day in Seattle Thursday April 14, 2011 10:58 amypennington

10:59

Kim ODonnel:  Spring has not been kind to most parts of the country, fyi. I know it's been warm in parts of the southeast, but the temps are wildly fluctuating and everyone I talk to says rain, rain, rain. Thursday April 14, 2011 10:59 Kim ODonnel

10:59

amypennington:  yes, mother nature has surprises in store, still, i'm sure Thursday April 14, 2011 10:59 amypennington

10:59

Kim ODonnel:  Amy, please share link to your blog, etc & all the deets! Thursday April 14, 2011 10:59 Kim ODonnel

10:59

amypennington:  That is why it is good to understand what plants require to produce as you like and make best choices Thursday April 14, 2011 10:59 amypennington

11:00

[Comment From Erin Erin : ]  The rain is good for the watershed, that's what I keep telling myself. It'll turn around, soon. Thanks for the chat! Thursday April 14, 2011 11:00 Erin

11:00

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  oh, and your "cauliflower pick up sticks," which even have my picky MIL liking things she doesn't know are in there (if i told her there was cinnamon + other spices, she'd never eat) Thursday April 14, 2011 11:00 alisoncsmith

11:00

amypennington:  Amy Pennington - www.gogogreengarden.com! Thursday April 14, 2011 11:00 amypennington

11:00

Kim ODonnel:  Now go and buy Amy's new book, y'all. It's a cute little thing that can fit into your purse. I've bent mine up already, dog-earing it like mad. Thursday April 14, 2011 11:00 Kim ODonnel

11:00

[Comment From alisoncsmith alisoncsmith : ]  can't wait to read the blog, amy! Thursday April 14, 2011 11:00 alisoncsmith

11:01

amypennington:  thanks, all! Thursday April 14, 2011 11:01 amypennington

11:01

amypennington:  Hope it helped and Alison - keep me posted. I would love to hear about your success/failures, etc. Drop me an email Thursday April 14, 2011 11:01 amypennington

11:01

Kim ODonnel:  Next week: Easter & Passover mash up and anything else on your mind...til then! Thanks to Amy for popping by & sharing her wisdom, YET AGAIN. You the best. Thursday April 14, 2011 11:01 Kim ODonnel

11:01

amypennington:  Kim, thank you for another lovely chat! Thursday April 14, 2011 11:01 amypennington

11:01

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  Thank you so much, Amy!! Thursday April 14, 2011 11:01 Jeanne in Seattle

11:01

amypennington:  Ciao all Thursday April 14, 2011 11:01 amypennington

11:01

[Comment From Jeanne in Seattle Jeanne in Seattle : ]  And thank you, Kim! Thursday April 14, 2011 11:01 Jeanne in Seattle