April 8, 2023, by Benedict Vanheems
If you’re keen to start a garden but only have a small space, don’t worry – it’s easier than you think! In just 60 minutes (or less!), you can begin growing fresh vegetables and herbs, even if you have a balcony, a patio, or just a small patch of lawn. Below, I’ll share three simple projects to get you started: growing vegetables in containers, splitting store-bought herbs to extend their life, and setting up a raised bed for vegetables in garden space.
1. Patio Vegetable Garden
Even a small patio or balcony can become a mini garden. Many fruits, vegetables, and herbs thrive in pots, making container gardening a great option for small spaces. For example, strawberries grow wonderfully in containers and are less prone to pests like slugs. You can also grow herbs like basil, parsley, and mint, and many vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers. Just ensure your pots have good drainage to keep the roots healthy.
Starting from Seeds vs. Plug Plants
While seeds are the most cost-effective way to start, plug plants provide a faster head start. If you’re new to gardening, plug plants might be a safer option, but growing from seeds can be equally rewarding. Mid-spring is an ideal time to start as temperatures rise.
Easy Veggies to Grow
Lettuce is perfect for beginners. It doesn’t need deep soil and thrives in shallow pots. To plant, either sow seeds directly in the pot or transplant lettuce seedlings (or plugs). Water gently to settle the soil and encourage growth.
Remember, gardening is a rewarding process! Even in a small space, growing your own food provides a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Keep your plants well-watered (especially in summer) and feed fruiting plants like tomatoes with organic fertilizer once they begin to flower. As you harvest, replant or sow new crops to keep your patio garden productive.
2. Extend Your Herb Harvest
Fresh herbs elevate any meal, and they’re easy to grow in small spaces like patios or windowsills. You can buy potted herbs from the store, but often, these plants are crowded together in one pot. By splitting these herbs, you can significantly extend their lifespan and harvest.
How to Split Herb Plants
Take a store-bought herb plant like basil or parsley, and gently separate it into multiple clumps. Each clump should have some roots attached. Pot these clumps in separate containers with fresh potting mix. Water them well, and they’ll start growing again, providing a continuous supply of fresh herbs.
This simple process can dramatically increase your herb harvest and give your plants more room to thrive. Within a few weeks, your herbs will bush out and be ready for regular picking.
3. Pallet Collar Raised Beds
If you have a patch of unused lawn or garden space, raised beds are an easy way to grow veggies. You can build a raised bed using wooden planks or even upcycle pallet collars, which are affordable and easy to set up.
Setting Up a Raised Bed
Start by positioning the pallet collar where you want your bed. Dig into the soil slightly if needed, or raise the bed if the ground is uneven. Cover the area with cardboard to suppress any weeds. Fill the bed with soil, compost, or well-rotted manure, and you’re ready to plant. Raised beds allow for better root growth, and the only ongoing care is to add mulch annually to maintain soil health.
Planting in Raised Beds
You can grow a wide variety of vegetables in raised beds, including salad greens, carrots, and beans. These beds are perfect for gardeners looking for minimal maintenance and maximum productivity. The connection with nature and the satisfaction of growing your own food are truly fulfilling.
Bonus: Gardening in Shady Spots
Not all spaces are sunny, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grow vegetables. Many plants, including salad onions, radishes, and spinach, tolerate partial shade. Choose crops suited to less sunny spots, and you’ll still get a rewarding harvest.
Conclusion
Starting a garden doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Whether you’re growing veggies in containers, splitting herbs, or building a raised bed, these simple projects are a great way to begin your gardening journey. The process is incredibly rewarding, and with a bit of care, you can enjoy homegrown produce right from your patio, balcony, or garden. Gardening is more than just a hobby – it’s a fulfilling experience that connects you to nature, improves your mood, and provides fresh, nutritious food.
If you’ve caught the gardening bug, try out a garden planner tool to plan your next steps and watch your garden thrive!