Amend soil with compost or organic matter before planting, use a starter fertilizer for early spring plantings, and topdress vegetables at the proper stage of growth. The closer spacing of interplanted vegetables will discourage some weeds. But the weeds that do grow must still be controlled, and rototillers will be too large for the job. Use small tools like onion hoes, or pull weeds by hand. All gardeners can grow vegetables more efficiently by using some of the intensive growing techniques described here.
Careful management is the key to successful intensive vegetable gardens.
The benefits can include greater yields per square foot, and more attractive vegetable plantings. Kenneth R. Bolen, Director of Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.