Santa Clara

Garden Help > Monthly Tips Monthly tips are categorized by To-Dos, What to Plant, or Pests and Diseases. Scroll through the list to see items in each category. Also, refer to our list of tips useful for any month.

The Asian Vegetable Trial was conducted in the summer of 2008 at the Nine Palms Ranch project. Five varieties of bok choy, three varieties of eggplants, and three kinds of sesame seeds were grown. All varieties were successful. Particular favorites were Fun Jen bok choy and Thai Roleks eggplant.

When to plant: January–early February Harvest window: June–July, depending on variety Fertilization: Nitrogen in spring, additional applications based on tree age, health, and soil quality Prune in summer (after harvest - early September)

Artichokes are considered a cool season crop but can be grown as a perennial in Santa Clara County. They require lots of sun, plenty of water, and occasional protection from frost.

Celery is challenging to grow in most of Santa Clara County. It grows best at 60–65ºF though it will tolerate temperatures from 45–75ºF. But it is difficult to find a four-month growing period in Santa Clara County that stays within that temperature range.

Tomatoes do best planted in full sun all day, although they will usually produce some crop with less. If your plants have had symptoms of disease in previous years, it is important to plant in soil that has not grown tomatoes or their relatives such as peppers or eggplants for three or more years.

Transplant or direct seed: May–June. Cucumbers are very sensitive to cold. For best results, wait until daytime temperatures are regularly in the high 70s–80s°F and soil temperature is at least 65–70°F Start in pots for transplants: April–May; ready to transplant in 4 weeks

Santa Clara County provides a year-round climate that is well-suited to growing a variety of culinary and aromatic herbs. Herbs are a great choice for beginner gardeners as they tend to be easy to grow and care for. They are a wonderful addition as borders to your vegetable garden or can be easily grown in…

Saffron is a spice that comes from the saffron crocus, Crocus sativus. This fall flowering crocus is distinct from the ornamental spring flowering crocuses. It also must not be confused with the similar but toxic fall flowering Colchicums. The only part used for the spice are the tiny stigmas of the flowers…

Starting seeds in pots can give your vegetables, herbs, and flowers a head start before being transplanted into the garden. This makes it possible to enjoy earlier harvests and earlier blooms. Sturdy transplants can better withstand pests, diseases, and difficult weather.