One of the benefits of owning your own home with your own backyard is the freedom to plant your very own garden. But what if you’re not so lucky as to own your own property at the moment? Don’t fret- just because you live in an apartment in the city doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy homegrown fresh fruits and veggies, too. Many plants can be grown in small containers placed either inside your home or on your patio or balcony- as long as it’s in a place that gets lots of sunshine. In this article, we will discuss the art of gardening in small spaces, so that those of you out there who haven’t been blessed with spacious living quarters may also know the joy of gardening and being self-sufficient.
There’s no question about it- the cost of living is swiftly rising, and with that comes the cost of food. Many families are struggling not only to make ends meet these days but in order to survive. Many people are taking to growing their own fruits and vegetables.
1. Picture the Layout for Your Garden
If you’re living in really tight living arrangements, you may only have room for very small containers to grow your plants in. Perhaps there’s only room for a window box. Don’t let your options be limited by your imagination. Many tight-spaced gardens are quirky and imaginative, using a wide array of recycled materials as planters.
For instance, plastic containers (such as margarine or whipped cream comes in,) tin cans, and even old-timey wash tubs can be used for growing plants. Some plants, such as tomatoes, herbs, and strawberries, can be grown upside down in topsy-turvy planters.
2. Don’t Forget Soil
The type of soil you use for your garden makes all the difference in whether your plants will or will not thrive. Fertile soil is an absolute must in order for many things to grow in a small area. Compost is also vital to the success- or failure- of your garden.
3. What to Plant and Where
The amount of space (and the amount of sunlight it receives) you have available will help determine which plants will be most successful in your garden. Dividing your planter bed into small, tightly spaced squares will provide your plants with a “living mulch” from foliage as your crops grow. Small plants (such as carrots and radishes) can be grown closer together than larger plants.
4. Proper Lighting
Most plants need direct sunlight in order to properly grow. If your balcony, patio, or another area where you are growing your garden doesn’t receive direct sunlight (or have good lighting in general,) solar garden lights may be used in their place. These also help draw attention to your crops, so that your visiting friends, family, and neighbors may enjoy and admire your work.
Growing a garden in small living quarters may be somewhat more difficult than if you had a huge yard, but it can be done. All it takes is some imagination, planning ahead, and a few accommodations in order for you to be enjoying your own self-sufficiency in no time.
Images source: Pexels
Also read: These 8 Plants Exhale Oxygen Even in The Night-Time
