Mel Bartholomew facts for kids
Mel Bartholomew (born December 14, 1931 – died May 2, 2016) was an American gardener and inventor. He was also a businessman, TV host, and writer. Mel was born in Kingston, New York, but grew up in California. He became famous for creating a special way of gardening called Square foot gardening.
His first book, Square Foot Gardening, sold more copies than any other gardening book in American history. He even had his own TV show about his gardening ideas, also called Square Foot Gardening, which ran for eight years. Mel Bartholomew passed away in San Diego, California on May 2, 2016, at 84 years old.
Contents
What is Square Foot Gardening?
Square foot gardening is a simple way to grow plants in a small space. Instead of long rows, you divide your garden into small squares, usually one foot by one foot. Each square can grow a different type of plant. This method helps you grow more food in less space. It also uses less water and makes weeding easier.
Why Mel Created This Method
Mel Bartholomew first came up with square foot gardening in the 1970s. He noticed that traditional gardening often wasted space and resources. Gardeners would plant long rows, but much of the area between plants was empty. He wanted a more efficient way to grow food. His method helps people grow their own food even if they have a small yard.
Key Ideas of Square Foot Gardening
- Raised Beds: Often, square foot gardens are built in raised wooden boxes. This helps control the soil and makes gardening easier on your back.
- Special Soil Mix: Mel suggested using a mix of compost, vermiculite, and peat moss. This mix is light, holds water well, and provides nutrients for plants.
- Planting Grids: You divide the garden bed into one-foot squares using a grid. This helps you know exactly how many plants to put in each square.
- Intensive Planting: You plant more closely together than in traditional rows. For example, you might plant 16 carrots in one square, or just one tomato plant.
- Less Weeding: Because plants are closer together, they shade the soil. This helps stop weeds from growing.
Mel Bartholomew's Books and TV Show
Mel Bartholomew wrote several books about square foot gardening. His first book, Square Foot Gardening, became a huge success. It taught many people how to start their own small gardens. He also had a popular TV show where he shared his tips and tricks. Through his books and show, he helped make gardening fun and easy for everyone.
Images for kids
-
Square foot garden in raised bed
See also
In Spanish: Huerta a cuadros para niños
