Gardening season is upon us, and with the cost of produce skyrocketing these past few years, there’s no better time to dive your hands into your garden.
“It’s always nice to be growing your own garden and teaching the kids. You can’t beat the quality and freshness. It’s a useful hobby and the best recreation you can introduce children to,” said Pam Van Osch, who has been working at Timber Mart for a little over six years. She is in charge of the garden centre and part of the sales team.
“There’s been quite an interest in young people growing their own food since COVID. Lots of people keeping it up.”
The 100 Mile area is known for its many microclimates, which have pros and cons, depending on where you are.
“Some areas get away with growing more sensitive crops than others. If you have lots of water and sun and are sheltered and not right on the lake exposed to the wind, you have a better opportunity for a better variety.”
On top of the microclimates, the Cariboo has a short growing season; however, there are ways around this.
“We don’t have enough sun hours for corn,” said Van Osch, who also mentioned lavender being another crop that is hard to grow in this area, “so a greenhouse is essential to growing a variety of fruits and vegetables in the Cariboo.”
For those interested in building their own greenhouse, Timber Mart carries lumber and greenhouse plastics.
As for what grows well in this area, Van Osch said to try honeyberries and basket berries like raspberries and strawberries.
“We are trying to push things that do well, like cabbage and things conducive to our area and zone … Rhubarb comes back every year. Cabbages and kales and cold weather crops do quite well.”
For those starting out, there are many gardeners in the area happy to share their expertise, said Van Osch, who mentioned 100 Mile House’s community garden.
“Don’t be afraid to keep trying things. Start small. Then you’re not setting yourself up for an expensive disappointment. And always ask questions.”
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