| Vegetable Gardening in Small Spaces: Yes You Can Do It! |
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A vegetable garden doesn't have to be huge and hold tons of plants. Not everyone has the space for a garden like that, but they can grow thriving plants in a small area as long as there's access to sunlight.
A vegetable garden doesn't have to be huge and hold tons of plants. Not everyone has the space for a garden like that, but they can grow thriving plants in a small area as long as there's access to sunlight. People develop gardens in various small areas - it could be a tiny bit of land outside a house, or pots in planters kept indoors or outdoors. How well you treat your plants and how skilful you are at gardening are issues that are far more important than the amount of space you have. Even a little garden can compete with a large one, if the gardener's expertise is applied well to growing the plants. Take the time to plan out your garden to maximize the amount of space that you have. You'll want to research the plants you intend to grow within your garden. Find out what plants can be planted near each other, which ones need the most sunlight and any care instructions needed to grow a particular type of plant. Once you have a plan, it will help you place the plants in your garden, whether you are using planters or a small area of your backyard. You'll also need to research when you should plant each plant as well. There are some plants that need planted earlier than others. You'll need to buy the seeds or plants that you are going to plant as well. Be sure that you have planters that are big enough if you are going to go with a pot garden. Some plants will need a bit more space for growing, so be sure that they are not too crowded. The soil you use in your pots should be of the best quality. This should give your plants the nutrition they need to grow large and healthy. You can ask for advice on soil from the experts at your garden centre. Even gardens grown in small areas will have problems with insects that feed on your plants. There are several ways you can keep these pests under control. Start by encouraging insect predators into your garden, such as lizards, ladybugs, frogs and birds. These creatures can be attracted to your garden by keeping a source of water nearby, such as a pond, and by growing plants that attract them. There are also some household items that fight against insects, such as hot peppers and garlic, as well as insecticidal soaps. Some fertilizing soil has ingredients mixed in that will help repel some pests, so check them out as well. If you feel you must use pesticides, use them sparingly. Most of these harmful chemicals can affect the plants as well as animals and children, so use only what's absolutely necessary for your garden. No matter how large or small your garden may be, you need to make sure you nurture it. Get rid of any weeks and make sure that soil is aerated from time to time and watered regularly. Without the right care from you, your garden will never thrive. Small gardens can thrive just as much as larger ones, so if you don't have the space for a big garden, just make use of the space you do have and grow healthy and robust plants. With the proper care, any garden can produce excellent plants. About the Author: Sarah Duke is publisher of The Vegetable Patch, where you'll find lots of great information for starting a vegetable garden. |
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