Foods to Start Growing in Your Own Backyard (Urban livers, you can do this too, for free):
Companion Plants to share boxes with
French marigold flowers - Plant around tomatoes, beans, and cucumbers
Queen Ann’s lace flowers-
Sweet Alyssum and Yarrow -
Lavender - Plant near roses and fruit trees!
Petunias - Plant near beans, squash, tomatoes, and potatoes
Chives - plant near rose, tomatoes, and fruit trees
Dill - plant near cucumbers
Fennel - plant alone or as a border plant
Amaranth Plant - Prehistoric, produces edible food, and is beautiful. Type I want: Love lies bleeding, Hotbiscuts
Plants to Repel Mosquitoes
Disease Management: Due to high humidity, choose disease-resistant hybrids over sensitive European varieties.
Soil and Site: Plant in well-drained soil, as vines cannot withstand "wet feet."
Frost Protection: Choose sites with good air drainage to protect against late spring freezes.
Spacing: Space vines 8 to 10 feet apart, with rows 10 to 12 feet apart for good air circulation.
Planting: For the best results, plant at least two different varieties to allow for cross-pollination.
Soil: Blueberries require acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
Location: Plant in full sun for maximum production.
Care: They are shallow-rooted and require consistent moisture and good drainage.
Mulching: Blueberries should have 4 to 6 inches of well-aged organic mulch, such as pine bark, sawdust, or rice hulls, to help them grow. Mulch controls weeds, keeps the soil moist, protects the plants from winter damage, manages unwanted suckers, and encourages healthy root growth.
To help plants establish and survive, you need to water them. A drip irrigation system is best. Give them 1.5 to 3 inches of water each week. In windy conditions, they may need more water. If the roots dry out, the surrounding peat will not absorb water easily, which can harm the plants.
Use more water for sandy soils and less for loamy soils. Be aware that these needs can change with the weather. Rabbiteye blueberry bushes can grow large and often ripen their fruit later in summer in Oklahoma. During dry and windy weather, they may need significantly more water. If they dry out between waterings, the fruit may crack or rot.
Too much water can also be harmful, as it can kill the roots or the entire bush. Blueberry roots are especially vulnerable to root rot and diseases like Phytophthora, so good drainage is essential for their health.
Wild blueberries grow in sandy, organic-rich soils in places like coastal North Carolina and rocky areas of Beaver’s Bend State Park in Oklahoma. These locations have high organic matter, good drainage, and receive plenty of rain. Garden blueberries need more water than wild blueberries because gardeners aim for larger, higher yields.
Water stress, whether from too much or too little, can reduce fruit size and yield. It can also affect flower bud formation and delay ripening. Leaves of plants that are overwatered or drought-stressed may turn dark red with brown edges and can die.
Fertilizing: To fertilize blueberries, you can use ammonium nitrogen, urea, sulfur-coated urea, ammonium sulfate, or cottonseed meal. Fertilizer meant for azaleas or rhododendrons is also a good choice.
Apply nitrogen in small amounts at bud break, bloom, after fruit sets, and once a month until August. It's better to use small, frequent applications instead of larger ones because blueberries have shallow roots and no secondary root hairs. If you prefer, you can use a slow-release nitrogen formulation to reduce losses from leaching.
Distribute fertilizers evenly around the plant's drip line, but avoid applying them near the base of the plant. Fertilizer helps the plant grow, increases berry size, and boosts overall production.
Southern Highbush: Legacy Highbush blueberry, Ozark Blueberry Bush, Summit Blueberry Bush, O'Neal blueberry bush
Northern Highbush: Duke blueberry bush, Collins Blueberry Bush, Blueray Blueberry Bush, Bluecrop Blueberry Bush, Elliot Blueberry Bush
Sunshine Blue blueberry bush
Rabbiteye Blueberry Bush: Climax Blueberry Bush, Premier Blueberry Bush, Tifblue Blueberry Bush, Powderblue Blueberry Bush
Saskatoon/Serviceberry/Juneberry Bush
Site Selection: Prefer full sun to partial shade. While adaptable to various soils, they thrive in well-drained, high-organic matter soil.
Watering: Ensure consistent moisture, particularly during fruit development in early summer.
Spacing: These bushes can reach 6–15 feet in height, so allow adequate space for growth.
Harvest: Berries usually ripen in early summer, similar to other berry crops in the region.
Planting Time: Late February to March is the best time for planting to allow for root establishment before intense heat.
Soil Prep: Choose a sunny, well-drained spot. Avoid areas where tomatoes, peppers, or potatoes were grown recently to prevent disease.
Spacing: Space plants 1.5 to 2.5 feet apart, letting runners fill in for matted rows, or 1 foot apart for everbearing types.
Summer Care: Apply mulch (like wheat straw) to keep roots cool and conserve moisture when temperatures rise.
Removal of Blossoms: Remove flowers on June-bearing plants the first year to encourage strong roots.
(For the best results, purchase certified, disease-free plants from local, reputable nurseries or suppliers.)
Cardinal strawberry plants
Prefers cooler weather (spring and fall) but is more heat-tolerant than other lettuces.
Needs full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Space plants about 12 inches apart.
Soil Preparation: Because Oklahoma often has heavy clay, ensure soil is loose and free of rocks to allow roots to grow straight.
Spring: Plant early, using fast-maturing varieties (e.g., Nelson).
Fall/Winter: Preferred season for better taste, as carrots become sweeter after a light frost.
Spacing: Thin the seedlings properly; otherwise, they will not develop, which is a common issue.
Site Selection: Plant in full sunlight, in well-drained soil.
Rootstock: Choose trees grafted onto rootstocks suitable for Zone 7 to ensure better survival.
Pollination: Most apple trees require a different variety nearby for pollination.
Timing: Plant in late winter, as recommended by local retailers like Atwoods.
Golden Delicious Apple Tree
Chill Hours: Select varieties requiring 500-900 hours below for best success.
Soil: Peach trees require well-drained, sandy loam soil. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter or create raised beds.
Planting: Plant in early spring or fall.
Pollination: While many are self-fertile, planting at least two different cultivars can ensure a heavier fruit set.
Disease Resistance: Choose varieties that are resistant to bacterial leaf spot.
Belle of Georgia peach tree
Fire Blight Resistance: Choose varieties with high resistance to fire blight (such as Moonglow, Orient, and Warren) because it is a common issue in the area.
Pollination: While some are self-fertile, planting at least two different varieties will result in a much larger harvest.
Rootstock: Look for trees grafted onto Pyrus calleryana or OHxF rootstocks for better drought tolerance and disease resistance.
Avoid: Do not plant the "Bradford" or other Callery pear types, as they are weak-structured, storm-susceptible, and considered invasive in Oklahoma.
Container Gardening: Since Oklahoma has harsh winters, grow trees in pots to move indoors or into a garage, especially during hard freezes.
Winter Protection: If planted in the ground, place trees against a south-facing wall and protect them with blankets or heat lamps during freezing temperatures.
Best Time to Plant: Spring is the ideal time to plant to allow the tree to establish before winter.
Soil and Care: Use well-draining, slightly acidic soil, and fertilize regularly during the growing season (spring through summer).
Look for these varieties at local nurseries in the Oklahoma City area or from specialty online citrus nurseries, such as Madison Citrus Nursery or One Green World, which offer hardy varieties.
Protection: Use frost cloths and blankets during cold snaps.
Location: Plant in a sunny, protected spot, preferably on the south side of a building to maximize heat and minimize cold wind.
Containers: Consider growing them in pots to move into a garage or shed during the harshest winter nights.
Rootstock: Use trees grafted onto cold-hardy rootstock, such as Trifoliate.
Wait to Harvest: Fruit can ripen through November and December.
Soil: Ensure well-drained soil, as cherries are prone to rot in poorly drained areas.
Maintenance: Control pests and diseases like leaf spot and plum curculio with a regular spray program.
Spacing: Plant in full sun.
(For ornamental, non-fruiting options that thrive in the area, the Yoshino Cherry is highly recommended.)
Soil: Needs fertile, well-drained soil with organic matter.
Planting: Sow seeds or transplant seedlings 4-5 weeks before the last frost, or in late summer for a fall crop.
Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Harvest: Pick outer leaves as needed; the plant will continue to produce from the center.
Timing: Plant in early spring (4-6 weeks before the last frost) or late summer for a fall harvest.
Soil & Sun: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil.
Tip: Choose varieties with shorter days to maturity (60-70 days) to harvest before the Oklahoma heat sets in.
Green Magic broccoli (F1)
Planting Time: Plant cloves in the fall (October to early November).
Conditions: Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
Harvesting: Garlic is typically ready for harvest in June.
Preparation: Apply mulch (like pine fines) to protect the cloves over the winter.
Silverskin - plant near, tomatoes, fruits trees, potatoes, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and carrots. Pair with roses as well.
Season: Early spring through early summer, and again in late summer/fall.
Conditions: Prefers full sun and loose, fertile, moist soil.
Spacing: Sow seeds inch deep, 1 inch apart, with rows 6-12 inches apart.
Harvesting: Harvest promptly when mature to avoid pithiness and excessive heat.
Kentucky Wonder pole bean
Dwarf Horticultural Long Pod bean
Spring Timing: Plant as soon as the soil can be worked (late Feb) to ensure harvest before early, sudden hot spells.
Soil: Peas prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Support: Provide trellising for climbing varieties (like Oregon Giant or Sugar Snaps).
Fall Garden: Plant southern peas through early August for a late summer/fall harvest.
Oregon Sugar Pod # 2 /edible pod
Super Sugar Snap /edible pod
Mississippi Silver/Brown crowder
Planting Timing: Corn thrives in warm weather and is generally planted when soil temperatures are consistently above in spring, through early summer, ensuring it matures before peak, extreme heat.
Spacing & Pollination: Plant in blocks (at least 4-6 rows wide) rather than long, single rows to ensure proper pollination and full ears.
Water Requirements: Consistent, deep watering is essential, especially when tassels emerge and ears start developing.
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.8 and 6.8 is ideal. DO NOT TRANSPLANT CORN, SOW IT DIRECTLY INTO THE GROUND 2 INCHES DEEP INTO SOIL WITH THE TIP OF THE SEED FACING DOWN.
Sugar-Enhanced (SE): These varieties offer tender kernels and improved flavor, maintaining sweetness longer after harvest, making them ideal for home gardeners.
Supersweet (Sh2): These hold their sweetness for even longer but require warmer soil for germination.
Open-Pollinated/Heirloom: While not as consistent in maturity, varieties like Golden Bantam are reliable, old-fashioned favorites.
Planting Time: Plant certified seed potatoes in the spring between February 15 and March 10.
Soil and Care: Potatoes require loose, well-drained soil. Hilling (mounding soil around the base) is essential as the plant grows to protect tubers from sunlight and increase yield.
Spacing: Space plants 12 inches apart in rows 30–36 inches apart to ensure proper growth.
Red Potatoes - I.e, Red Norland, Red LaSoda, Red Pontiac
White Potatoes - I.e, Kennebec, Superior, and Irish Cobbler
Yellow/Specialty Potatoes - I.e, Yukon Gold, Purple Viking
Russet Potatoes - I.e, Russet Norkotah
Timing: Plant transplants in late February to early March. For fall planting (harder to overwinter), try September to early October.
Planting Method: Use transplants (slips) rather than sets for larger, sweeter onions.
Soil & Sun: Onions need full sun, well-drained soil, and consistent moisture.
Fertilizer: Feed with nitrogen every few weeks until they start to form bulbs.
Plant Early: Set out transplants as soon as the danger of frost has passed to allow them to establish before the peak summer heat.
Heat Management: Consider using shade cloth for, and heavily mulch to keep roots cool.
Disease Resistance: Look for labels with V (Verticillium wilt), F (Fusarium wilt), and N (Nematodes) resistance.
Watering: Consistent watering is crucial to prevent blossom end rot, especially for large, fast-growing varieties.
Tomatoes should be grown in full sunlight and planted away from trees and shrubs to obtain the highest yield. Tomato plants require abundant moisture for best growth, so arrange for easy watering. The area selected should be well-drained since poor drainage promotes root loss. Tomatoes grown on heavy or poorly drained soils should be planted in raised beds or mounds four to six inches high.
Tomatoes grow well in many types of soil but prefer deep, fertile, well-drained soil that is amply supplied with organic matter and is slightly acidic (pH of about 6.5). The soil should be worked only when it is dry enough that it will not stick to tools. Garden soil may be improved by adding rotted manure, leaf mold, peat moss, or other organic materials.
Fertilizers should be added when the soil is prepared for planting. A soil sample should be taken for testing if fertilizer needs are not known. Collect and submit the sample for testing at least six weeks prior to planting time.
When needed, a complete garden fertilizer should be added to the soil before planting. Tomatoes prefer a fertilizer low in nitrogen, high in phosphorus, and medium to high in potassium. Before transplanting, use one to two pounds of 10-20-10 or similar fertilizer for every 100 square feet if you do not have soil test information.
All fertilizers should be worked into the top six inches of soil.
Baxter’s Early Bush tomato
Sun Gold (Cherry Tomatoes) 10, 11, 16, 17
Watering: Cucumbers need consistent moisture to avoid bitterness. Drip irrigation or consistent, deep watering is recommended.
Mulch: Use heavy mulch to conserve soil moisture and keep roots cool.
Timing: Plant as early as possible after the last freeze to get ahead of the hottest weather.
Harvesting: Pick regularly to encourage more production; for some varieties, smaller is better.
H-19 little leaf cucumber
Basil - Plant with tomatoes
Rosemary - Plant near carrots, beans, cabbage, and broccoli. Avoid planting near mint.
Thyme - Plant near cabbage, broccoli, tomatoes, strawberries, cauliflower, eggplants, peppers and kale.
Mint plants - Plant alone, intense and rapid spreader
Planting Time: Wait until the danger of frost has passed, usually around April 15th, to plant seeds or transplants.
Growing Conditions: Watermelons need full sun, and for best results in Oklahoma's climate, they require consistent moisture, though some (like Desert King) can withstand drought.
Mulching: Use wheat straw to keep the melons off the ground, which helps prevent rot and keeps them clean.
For optimal results, plant when the soil is warm (late April to May) in well-drained, sandy loam soil, similar to the conditions in Rush Springs, the nearby watermelon capital. For best results, consider planting in April and harvesting when the vine turns brown near the melon, which usually takes 80-90 days.
Moon and Stars watermelon
Summer Sweet 5234 watermelon
Planting: Direct seed or transplant after the last frost.
Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows 5-6 feet apart.
Conditions: Plant in full sun and well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8.
Watering: Water consistently, but avoid waterlogged soil.
Harvesting: Harvest when the vine slips easily from the melon and the rind turns tan/yellow.
(Using mulch around the root zone is highly recommended to conserve moisture during hot Oklahoma summers.)
Sarah's Choice Hybrid Melon
Planting: Direct seed in late April to early May, once soil temperatures exceed.
Disease Management: Choose resistant (PM) hybrids to combat powdery mildew, which is common in Oklahoma due to humidity.
Harvesting: Look for the rind to turn from white to creamy-yellow and a slight softening at the blossom end.
Planting Time: Plant seeds 2–3 weeks after the last spring frost when the soil is warm.
Pest Management: Squash bugs are common; hand-pick eggs (shiny, copper-colored) from under leaves, or use row covers.
Harvesting: Pick summer squash when small (6-8 inches) to encourage more production and avoid bitter, large fruits.
Spacing: Provide3-4 feet between plants to allow for air circulation, reducing mildew.
Butternut squash - Chieftain squash, Ultra HP Premium squash, Waltham Butternut squash
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