We’re going to bet you already knew this, but in case you didn’t we’re here to remind you that gardening can be an AMAZINGLY FUN, gratifying, rewarding hobby. Gardening sparks a sense of calm and relaxation while also having the side benefit of producing fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables to eat at home. Yet, many folks assume hey need a large yard or ample outdoor space to create a garden. In actuality, this couldn’t be further from the truth. All you need to grow a garden (in any space) is a can-do attitude and a few handy tips that will turn any space into a thriving, living, productive urban jungle. So let’s dive into our top considerations for growing in small spaces.
Choose Your Containers Wisely
One of the keys to a successful garden in a small space is choosing the right containers - ones that will both fit your space and your plants needs. In terms of your plants growth, you want to select containers that are large enough to accommodate the roots of your plants. For aesthetic sensibilities (if that’s your jam), you also want to ensure that the pots are not so large that they take up too much space. Consider using pots, planters, or even hanging baskets to maximize your space. Our team here loves macrame designs holding hanging pots to add a sense of calm to any space.
Optimize Sunlight
Plants need sunlight to grow. It’s, therefore, essential to optimize the amount of sunlight your plants receive. If you're working with a small space that doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight, there are few tricky hacks you can employ to give them the sunlight they need. One way is to use reflective surfaces such as mirrors to bounce light around. Another is to use artificial grow lights to supplement natural sunlight (like those included in the AEVA & EVE).
Use Vertical Space
When you don't have much floor space, look up! Consider using vertical garden solutions such as trellises, hanging planters, or wall-mounted planters (or breathtaking indoor gardens where everything is already pre-built - wink, wink, nudge, nudge). You can even create a living wall by attaching small planters to a wall or fence. Using vertical space not only saves floor space, but it can also be visually stunning.
Water Your Plants Correctly
For most aspiring green thumbs, this is one of the most important areas of consideration. It’s essentail to avoid overwatering or underwatering your plants, as either can lead to root rot or other issues. Be sure to water your plants thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. We use the Planta App to help us know when to water our plants that are not on automatic watering schedules.
Even if you only have a small balcony, patio, or indoor space, you can still enjoy the many benefits of gardening. By choosing the right containers, optimizing sunlight and water, and selecting the right plants and soil, you can grow a beautiful and productive garden in even the tiniest of spaces.