Planting is both an art and a science. From ancient Mesopotamia to today’s urban gardens, agriculture has always required planning, patience, and knowledge of the seasons. A successful garden begins with preparation. As early as possible, make a list of the vegetables, herbs, or flowers you want to grow, and gather seeds or starter plants. In Nigeria, many farmers and gardeners align their planting with the rainy season, but knowing your last frost date (if you live in temperate regions) or rainy season onset is critical for timing.
Frost-Tender vs.
Hardy Plants
Gardeners classify
plants into two groups: frost-tender and hardy. Frost-tender plants, like
tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, must be started indoors or planted after
frost ends. Hardy crops such as spinach, onions, and carrots tolerate cooler
soils and can be planted earlier. In Nigeria’s tropical climate, instead of
frost, farmers watch for rainfall cycles, early maize and yam are often planted
with the first rains, while vegetables like fluted pumpkin (ugu) thrive with
consistent watering.
Starting Seeds
Indoors
If you’re in a
cooler climate, seeds like tomatoes and peppers should be started indoors about
8-12 weeks before the last frost. Use containers with drainage, a sterile soil
mix, and good light. Once seedlings grow their first true leaves, they can be
fed with a diluted organic fertilizer. Nigerians who farm in backyards or
containers often use buckets, sacks, or raised beds to start seeds, ensuring
good drainage during heavy rains.
Planting Outdoors
& Care
When seedlings are
ready, harden them by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Plant them
in well-prepared beds, mulch to conserve moisture, and water deeply rather than
frequently. Support vining crops with stakes or trellises.
Keeping Records
A written planting
plan, marking what was planted where and when, is one of the best tools for
improving your garden year after year. As farmers in Nigeria say, “the soil
remembers,” and so should you.
