Re: Gardening Q
Gardening is pretty straightforward really. Remember -- seeds, seedlings, plants -- these things WANT to grow....!
A small slope in your gardening spot ought not be too much of a problem, but a significant one might be, because your seeds and seedlings could be washed down the slope in the rain (erosion), and because of uneven water distribution, etc. It's possible to terrace the slope if necessary -- splitting the slope into levels, like stair steps, holding the earth back on the front end with pavers, big blocks of wood (like railroad ties), etc. But this is probably not even necessary (you might also consider raised beds)....
When planting seeds, it doesn't hurt to put more than one seed into each hole, just in case one isn't viable. However, if both sprout then it will be necessary to thin them, or the carrots will be crowded which causes stunting and twisted roots. When thinning seedlings, choose the smaller, less hardy-looking ones to sacrifice (I've been known to try replanting them somewhere else in the garden). Once the plants get some size, you'll be able to see where they seem crowded and could use more space. ....
The 'red stuff' must be clay? -- generally speaking pretty poor soil. Enrich it with the black soil, mixing it in. If you compost, add that too. Gardens LOVE compost. Manure is excellent also. This important organic material adds nutrients to the soil, yes, but it also improves it's texture (very important). Soil with the correct texture (loose and crumbly -- not sticky or compacted) has much better aeration, drainage, fertility, and is much easier to work with, for both plants and people! (Just a note, carrots do prefer a 'sandier' soil...)
After your initial planting, give everything a gentle, but thorough, soak. Once things start to grow, it is important to water consistantly, not letting the soil dry TOO excessively inbetween waterings (no cracked soil) --but it's fine for the soil to dry a bit between waterings. Just go for a good balance -- not too dry, not TOO wet (which can encourage rot and blight problems -- although carrots don't mind soil a little on the moist side). A nice soak, either by rain or by hose, every now and then will keep them healthy and happy....
I don't know what zone you're in , but you're *definitely* safe for carrots ( a cool weather crop). As for everything else, once you are past the last average date of frost for your area, it can ALL go in....
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