Growing a vegetable garden in the north of France

Northern France is known for being a major market gardening region. Yet many gardeners struggle to grow crops in this area! Characteristics of the Northern Region: Like much of France, the region enjoys a temperate oceanic climate. In winter, periods of frost are relatively rare and short. This is good news for gardeners! The thermometer averages 3 to 5 degrees Celsius in winter and just over 20 degrees Celsius in summer. The northern region is unique in that it receives little sunshine compared to other regions with an oceanic climate. Rainfall is relatively constant year-round, peaking in autumn. Soil types are very diverse in the upper reaches of France. Much of the land is composed of silt. These are rich and productive soils that offer very good yields when properly cultivated. How to grow in the northern region? You need to capture the light and heat! Properly orienting your garden will ensure optimal growth and better productivity for your plants. Many experts recommend a north-south orientation so that crops benefit from even and long-term sun exposure. When planted in a westerly direction, plants tend to shade themselves. Mulch! Mulching is the best way to protect plant root systems from the coldest weather conditions. A dark mulch will capture heat and release it back into the soil. At the end of winter, remember to remove soggy mulch so the soil can warm up more quickly. Mulching will also protect plants from compaction and erosion caused by frequent rain. Cover your crops: By sheltering plants with a plastic tunnel, you will increase the temperature and stimulate plant growth. In winter, shelters will be very useful to protect the foliage from the risk of frost and play on precocity. Shelter crops from the wind: Due to its proximity to the coast, the upper part of France is often subject to strong winds that drop temperatures by a few degrees. Try to create sheltered areas conducive to plant growth by installing hedges of trees, shrubs, and low perennials. Raise crops: mounds and other raised crops warm up quickly in early spring. They will ensure good drainage, a significant element with the region's regular rainfall. Wait a little: Wait until the soil has warmed up sufficiently to sow; it is better to wait one or two weeks rather than risk losing your crop. If you are really impatient, start sowing under cover! What to sow or plant in the northern zone? A multitude of vegetables are produced in the North of France! France is the world's leading producer of endive! The northern region provides more than half of the production! Leafy vegetables appreciate the mildness of the oceanic climate: lettuce, chicory, lamb's lettuce, spinach, leeks, salsify, asparagus, rhubarb, watercress, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale and many other cabbages.... Artichokes and beans (dwarf shelling, ingot,...), peas tolerate the low sunlight. Vegetable bulbs such as onions, garlic and shallots do not fear cold temperatures and can be planted in early spring. Beets, parsnips, carrots and potatoes grow well in these regions, especially the 'bleue d'Artois' variety, also called 'bleue de la Manche'. Many traditional and local varieties have been selected and are extremely well adapted to the climatic conditions.