Some plants entwine themselves onto the support, while others may need to be tied. Because vertically growing plants are more exposed, they dry out faster and may need to be watered more frequently than if they were allowed to spread over the ground. This fast drying is also an advantage to those plants susceptible to fungus diseases. A higher rate of fertilization may be needed, and soil should be deep and well-drained to allow roots to extend vertically rather than compete with others at a shallow level. Interplanting Growing two or more types of vegetables in the same place at the same time is known as interplanting.
Proper planning is essential to obtain high production and increased quality of the crops planted.
This technique has been practiced for thousands of years, but is just now gaining widespread support in this country. For the beginner, alternating rows may be the easiest to manage at first. The radishes are harvested before they begin to crowd the carrots. An example of combining growth patterns is planting smaller plants close to larger plants, radishes at the base of beans or broccoli. Shade tolerant species like lettuce, spinach, and celery may be planted in the shadow of taller crops.