Garden produced everything small- why?

Question

This is my first garden in many many years. The green beans were normal. But everything else is stunted. Corn ears had lots of missing kernels (no worms) melons are tiny but ripe, etc. We had plenty of rain. Could this be a soil issue, or something else? I want to have a better garden next year! Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

the corn didn't produce because it didn't get pollinated ,some varieties don't produce enough pollen to do a good job you might try planting 2 different varieties together,for a better pollination. melons sound like they were planted too late  in the season.don't forget to compost and till it in next spring........tom

Answer 2

put on the soil sheep pellets or blood and bone, start a compost bin, during the winter months plant blue lupins and dig in when flowers start to appear, that will bring the worms as well as adding nitrogen to the soil.experiment with potatoes, they help to break up the soil, and prior to planting your other vegies add dolomite lime to your garden,as well as sweetening the soil it adds essential minerals, remember gardening is a learning way of life and it's also a lot of fun, so don't get disheartened.  enjoy

Answer 3

Although compost will definitely improve any soil, you may be lacking an essential element or micro nutrient needed for good growth of most veggies. A garden requires a lot of effort and can be costly so it may be worth your while to spend a few additional dollars and have your soil tested. A local nursery or garden center should be able to direct you to an appropriate service.

Answer 4

It may be too much rain water for the plants you chose to plant this year. With so much rain you also get less sun.

I was on my way to Ottawa from Toronto a few weeks ago in the middle of July and stopped at a blueberry stand. I wanted some of the wild blueberries and the fellow said they had hardly any.  They were very late this year.  Then he said that corn is late this year too.  He asked me if I had seen any corn being sold on the road sides and he was right - there were none.  This farmer blamed the late blueberries and corn on the lack of sun  - due to all the rain.

However, you may want to look at boosting the soil somewhat. You have from now until next spring to add whatever compost you can find that's reasonably priced - or use your own.

Next year should be better - mainly due to better weather.

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Answer 5

For next year you will want to amend your garden with organic composted material, and thoroughly mix into soil.  A shovel will work but a rototiller is better.  Fertilize.  Water deeply but not frequent.  Too frequent of watering causes the soil to have no oxygen to the roots of the plant.  I would water no more than 3 days per week, maybe two in a colder climate.  Or as needed if you get alot of rain.  Check the soil for the water underneath, stick your finger in it to a depth of 1 and one half inches, is there moisture, then it is not time to water yet.   During the first weeks of planting you may want to water more.  Is there enough sun in your garden?  Most garden plants need full sun.  Hope this helps.