In gardening, it’s not about how much space you have. It’s about how you make use of it. There are plenty of urban gardeners who have come to realize that they can do a lot with very limited space. They no longer have to envy large-scale farmers who have endless rows of crops.
If you have a small garden, don’t fret. You just have to learn a few tips and tricks to maximize it. Here are some to get you started with.
- Plant an edible garden
Self-reliance and survival are all about learning to feed yourself and your loved ones. That’s why survival gardening is key just in case disaster strikes. No matter how little your space is, it’s about what you plant.
If you have very limited space but want to be equally prepared, an edible garden is key. It’s what farmers mean when they tell you to “grow food, not grass”. Why not replace that grass with lettuce, kale or broccoli? Why not switch up your juniper bush with blueberry bush?
There are so many edible crops you can plant in your small space garden. Cooking herbs, tomatoes, banana plants, cabbage, peppers, and artichokes are some you can start with.
- Create raised beds
Every experienced gardener will tell you that raised beds make small space gardens feel bigger. They’re also the most efficient and effective means to grow crops.
We highly recommend going for traditional raised beds instead of the framed variety. This option allows you to plant more seeds on the sides and grow crops along the edges. Now, you have more space to plant your dream vegetables and fruits.
When creating raised beds, remember to keep companion planting in mind. Be sure you’re not pairing up the wrong seeds. Otherwise, it’s going to kill your garden. Moreover, it’s good to mix your fruits and vegetables with herbs. This acts as a natural pest repellant.
- Grow upward, not outward
Another secret to effective small space gardening is growing vertically. Since you don’t have the luxury of space in your backyard or balcony, it’s ideal for you to choose crops that grow upward instead of outward.
Some of the best examples of which are tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, peas, pole beans, gourds, and melons. Again, keep companion planting in mind and be sure you are attending to the individual needs of your crops.
Vertical gardening isn’t just great because it’s space-friendly. It also minimizes pests, makes tending the garden easier and gives you the feeling of being surrounded by greenery.
- Fertilize, fertilize, fertilize
Plants have a tendency to deplete the nutrients they receive when planted in smaller containers or beds. That’s why you have to pay extra attention to your soil when it comes to small space gardening. The trick? Fertilize, fertilize, fertilize.
Learn to add compost, top-dress your soil and spray it often with compost tea. When you are working with limited space, you have to be more mindful if your crops are getting enough nutrients for them to grow abundantly. The lack of fertilizer makes all the difference between having a high-yielding garden and a low-yielding one.