garden is planted... now what?

[ArcticCat]

OK, the garden is in, whats my next move? What and when should I use fertilizer?

For a little background, my garden is based in my backyard, in the ground, no raised beds. The ground here in Mid-Michigan is pretty "fertile", but I would like to optimize the fruits of my labor... So, should I be putting some fertilizer down or something else?

I'm sure the variety of plants I have should get different treatments.

Ken

[riceke]

Originally Posted by ArcticCat

OK, the garden is in, whats my next move? What and when should I use fertilizer?

For a little background, my garden is based in my backyard, in the ground, no raised beds. The ground here in Mid-Michigan is pretty "fertile", but I would like to optimize the fruits of my labor... So, should I be putting some fertilizer down or something else?

I'm sure the variety of plants I have should get different treatments.

Ken

Keep an early watch on your weeds!

[Mudman]

Keep the weeds down, keep things watered and wait. Not sure if you need fertilizer or not. I have gardened for many years without adding anything but a little compost around my plants once in a while. Much of the soil in the Upper Midwest is very fertile as is (especially if this is the first year on this plot).

[sprtsguy76]

Plant more thats what I do.

Damon

[RebelRidin]

What Mudman said. If this is the first year for your plot you may well have it made on the nutrient side of the equation. Staying ahead of the weeds and managing your watering could be your main challenges.