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GREEN GAINS

I’m a gardening pro and a versatile veggie is easier to grow than you think – plus how to keep away hungry little pests

And the foods that thrive on a balcony

A GARDENING expert has declared that growing your own foods in an outdoor space is possible, regardless of size.

Craig Wilson shared tips for a vegetable patch that thrives without being nibbled on by hungry pests.

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Gardening expert Craig Wilson shared tips for a thriving vegetable patch (stock image)Credit: Getty

He's the co-founder, director, and in-house gardening expert at .

Speaking to The U.S. Sun, he revealed how homeowners can have a flourishing vegetable patch even if they aren’t the most experienced gardener.

BRIGHT START 

Wilson said considering where will be the ideal spot with adequate sunlight is the first step for growing food.

“A sheltered spot is ideal, as this will help to keep your vegetable patch protected through adverse weather conditions," he said. 

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“However, while some shelter is good, you also need to ensure that this area also benefits from lots of sun and natural moisture. 

“So if you have a spot that has each of these things, you’re ready to get started, if not, you may need to reconsider starting a vegetable patch at home.

“The next thing you will need to consider is your soil, you need to be sure that it is of the best possible quality to give your crops a chance to grow.”

SIMPLE SOWING

The gardening expert revealed there is a selection of easy-to-grow foods but it’s important to consider the climate.

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  • He recommended rotating crops annually to prevent soil-borne pests and diseases from becoming well-established. 

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    “To protect plants against pests above ground, use covers made of a lightweight, permeable fabric to protect your vegetables from a wide range of pests while still allowing light, water, and air to reach the plants,” he said.

    “To get rid of whiteflies in particular, spray your plants with a hose to scatter adults and dislodge the pupa and eggs. 

    “Young white flies cannot crawl and die without access to their food source. 

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    “To stop the adults from returning to your plants, treat them with neem oil as soon as you have removed the flies from the plant.”

    Wilson said lightweight covers should be used to prevent pests from attacking plants above ground (stock image)Credit: Getty
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