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Corryton, TN

This is my first year and most of what I've read says to plant 1-2 plant with possibly a 3rd back-up plant. Why so few? I have a difficult time doing anything on a small scale when I see others doing much more. I know time, space and money can be limiting factors for most all of us. For me space is not an issue. Money won't be if no one tells my wife. I can squeeze in 2-4 hrs a day most days for the patch, possibly more if needed. Do I plant the seeds I think have the most potential or some that are not as prized (by me) at this time? What am I missing?

3/15/2008 2:48:13 PM

Pinedale, WY

I had space, but not enough time, and I planted too many and couldn't keep up. However it is nice to have more than one or two while you are learning, that way if you mess up you still have more going, plus you get practice and repitition.

3/15/2008 3:55:45 PM

Frankfort Oh

I plant proven seeds and none proven seeds ,,,you never know witch, ones are going, to give, you the big one !weather and soil has alot to do with it ,,but to be truthfull with you! you should grow, unexspensive seeds, the, first year ,,untill you get, the nack of things . to prevent the lost of good seeds! and trust me, three plants is more, then enough, your first year out ,,they`ll keep you busy.Rob

3/15/2008 4:30:22 PM

Adams County

I avg 1 hr per plant per day , but i could be slow or i might be fast. I have the room for 8 plants but only plant 3 to 4 . Hope this helps.. Bill

3/15/2008 4:48:39 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

No HH here but 600 sq ft per plant, and at least an hour per day, during peak growing season. Also, lots of time b/4 plants ever hit the patch are needed to get the soil in proper shape!!! Soil tests are almost a necessity!!! Another also, a good understanding of feeding, and protection (pests, and diseases) and a plan to deal with both of those prblms is needed. Not meaning to discourage anyone, just want ya to know, this insanity does take a lot of work!!! Peace, Wayne

3/15/2008 5:00:43 PM

Eugene,OR

It all depends on you, your work situation, your family situation, your space, and how much you are willing to work at this hobby. My first year I grew 13 plants. The next year I grew 24 plants. The next year I grew 14 plants. Last year I grew 12 plants. I have learned a lot by growing a lot of plants. I've screwed up a lot of plants, and I have grown a couple of semi-big ones. If it is right for you, grow a bunch!

3/15/2008 5:45:36 PM

Sort of Sunny Sometimes, WA

I don't think an hour a day per plant is necessary or Gary Miller would never sleep. The first year you grow I would stay small because there is so much to learn, especially if you live in a place like Tennessee with those nasty SVBs.

3/15/2008 6:15:17 PM

Adams County

spraying , watering , fertilizing , pruning , buring vines , drawing water , inspecting for damage and weeding. Al I know is I'm there from 7:00 till dark

3/15/2008 9:52:17 PM

Puyallup, WA

I don't care how many plants you have in the ground, it's going to be "too many" for the wife! "All you do is spend all day on those XXXX plants. You must be luny!"

3/15/2008 11:31:46 PM

Corryton, TN

Thanks all
I'm leaning towards 8-10 all unproven but good on paper, I think. I figure I can kill about half by Aug 15 and blow up a couple more by weigh day. More suggestions will be appreciated.

3/16/2008 8:14:19 AM

Boise City, Oklahoma, USA

Try to work economically; and look critically at how you do things to save time. My big one this year is paying to have three more yard hydrants put in in strategic locations. And more plumbing (hoses and gangs)[no more pail and hose watering system with me lugging, dragging]. More mulch, less weeds [no more trying to pick tomatos and getting crabgrass tassels up my shorts!] :) Companion plant, to help keep down the problems. I garden because I like to, but I want time to admire and pamper, not do the drugery... My Mr. doesn't mind the gardening, we have an occasional grouse (him at me) about $, and I do bring in fresh stuff for him to eat. Fresh tomatos keep him happy....er

3/16/2008 10:45:50 AM