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How to Get Started Container Gardening

Not everyone has access to plantable land, so container gardening is a great way to enjoy fresh, healthy produce all summer long!  Growing produce in pots is perfect for where I’m currently at in life.  It’s more manageable since there’s hardly any need to pull weeds and there’s no need to till the land.  The only maintenance is regular watering!

Not only does a container garden save space, it saves money as well. Something that is important with the cost of food forever increasing!

While I’m not an expert, there are some tips I’ve learned that I’d love to share, to help you get started container gardening.

Start small

The first year I decided to try my hand at container gardening, I went a bit crazy.  Rather than trying out a couple of different plants, I decided to try almost every plant that claimed to be for small spaces.  As the summer went on, I lost my enthusiasm and most of the plants ended up being neglected. I’ve since learned to assess where I’m at in life to determine just how much time I’ll have to maintain my garden, which helps me decide how many plants/seeds to buy.

Buy your seeds and plants

Container or urban gardening is becoming quite popular these days.  It’s quite easy to find plant and seed varieties that are produced especially for growing in compact situations. In fact, I picked up a couple of different seeds that were from an “Urban Garden Collection” line of seeds by Thompson & Morgan. Did you know, Amazon also sells seeds?

For the types of plants that do best in containers, see my post The Best Vegetables for Container Gardening.

Get the right pots

Don’t think you have to spend a lot of money to build up a container collection. In fact, I got all my pots (black 5 gallon buckets that trees or big shrubs come in) from the golf course that I used to work at. I didn’t pay a cent! While this is not an option for most of you, many greenhouses sell 5 gallon tree buckets at an affordable price. You could also keep your eyes open on sites like Kijiji, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for any suitable container. There’s no need to break the bank, especially when you’re just getting started container gardening.

These Grow Bags are also great!

In choosing the size of your pots, take a look at the packages or labels on the plants that you have purchased.  If they’re especially meant for containers, the packages or labels will usually tell you if you need a big pot or if a small one will suffice. Tomatoes, beans, peas, carrots, potatoes, and peppers generally need large containers, while lettuce, radishes, herbs, and onions are suitable for shallower containers.

Find the light

When determining where to put your containers, sunlight is a very important thing to factor in.  Most vegetables need a lot of sunlight so I placed most of my containers on our back patio where they get all the afternoon sun. I put my lettuce containers in the front where the morning sun only hits for a couple of hours; lettuce doesn’t like to get too hot. Your seed packs and plant labels will tell you how much sun each plant prefers.

Buy good potting soil

Once your containers are in place, you’ll want to fill them with a good quality potting soil. Not top soil and not regular garden soil.  Potting soil is always modified to ensure proper drainage and aeration which is important to the health of your plants.

Filling large containers can be costly. To reduce the cost and also the weight of the container consider adding a filler to the bottom of the container to take up space. Crushed pop cans, plastic milk jugs, packing peanuts and even those empty black/green plastic flower pots you just used are all great options.

Plant, Water, Wait

Finally, it’s time to plant your seeds or starter plants!  Plant each fruit and vegetable according to the directions found on the label or packaging.  Water everything well.  (You may want to use a spray bottle for little seeds, like lettuce, so they don’t get washed away.)  Now, sit back and watch for everything to start growing!

Book Recommendation

I always like to have a good garden book at home to reference. Google is great, but there can be a lot of differing information out there! Small-Space Vegetable Gardens: Growing Great Edibles in Containers, Raised Beds, and Small Plots is a great reference book that I look to time and time again!

I hope these easy tips will help you gain confidence to get started container gardening! Have you ever done any container gardening? What will you be planting this year?

You might also enjoy:

• 5 Ways to Grow a Garden in Small Spaces
• The Best Vegetables for Container Gardening
• 5 Container Gardening Mistakes to Avoid
• 20 Reasons to Plant a Garden
• My recommended container gardening supplies

The Best Vegetables for Container Gardening

Growing up, my mom would plant a big vegetable garden every year so the idea of growing my own food has always been appealing.  Due to our lack of yard space, I have tried a bit of container gardening in the past, but this year, I intend on going “all out” and documenting my progress!

Although I won’t be able to grow enough vegetables to last all summer long, it’s still nice to know exactly where they come from and to have the satisfaction of eating what I grow.  Nothing beats watching your hard work come to fruition!

When it comes to container gardening, not all fruits and vegetables will successfully grow in containers. From my experience and online research, here are the best vegetables for container gardening.

• Lettuce
• Spinach
• Carrots
• Radishes
• Beans
• Peas
• Tomatoes
• Peppers
• Onions
• Eggplant
• Herbs
• Strawberries
• Potatoes

When you’re purchasing your seeds or starter plants, you’ll want to look for varieties that say they’re good for containers. I always have great success with patio tomatoes and Spring Mix type lettuce.

Will you be planting a container garden this year?  What have you had success with in the past?

Related Container Gardening Articles:

• Create a Lasagna Garden in a Container
• 5 container Gardening Mistakes to Avoid
• How to Get Started Container Gardening
• The Best Vegetables for Container Gardening
• 5 Ways to Grow a Garden in Small Spaces

5 Ways to Grow a Garden in Small Spaces

It’s that time of year again when the grass is green, flowers are nearly blooming and people are starting to think about or prepare their gardens. It can be tough for some who wish to plant, but feel they don’t have the room or ability to plant anything where they currently live.

Here are 5 Ways To Grow A Garden In Small Spaces that will help anyone, no matter the size of their living space or yard, to be able to grow some type of garden that will supplement their groceries as well as bring the joy of watching a garden grow.

Create Window Boxes

Using ready made window boxes is a great way to go when trying to garden in tight spaces. There are many to choose from or you can create your own with a long narrow basket lined with plastic. (Make sure to poke a few small holes in the plastic to allow for drainage.) Windows are great for the sunlight plants need while using space that is otherwise typically empty in your home.

Container Gardens

Whether you use traditional pots or the empty containers and baskets you have around the house container gardens are an excellent way to grow vegetables in a small space.

Herbs and tall plants do best in container gardens as they can grow up instead of out. Tomatoes, Peas, Green Beans and Corn are all great for containers, just make sure you also have plenty of room for them to grow upward and proper support to hold them up.

Related: The Best Vegetables for Container Gardening

Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets or a great way to grow vegetables that tend to create longer vines. Cucumbers, Squash and Zucchini grow nicely in hanging baskets as long as you don’t crowd too many in one basket.

Repurpose regular baskets with some plastic sheeting in the bottom and some small chain woven through the sides to create a “hanger”. Make sure to invest in sturdy material so you don’t wake up to a basket of vegetables and soil all over your floor.

Turn a Flower Bed into a Vegetable Garden

Sure we love the tulips, lilies and roses around the front of the house, but would it be better for you to use that space for vegetables instead? You can also leave the bulk of your flowers in place and grow only a few vegetables in between. Weeding back what you currently grow as flowers and filling in empty space with herbs, lettuce, cucumber, squash and more will help to create food and beauty at the same time.

Use a Trellis on the Side of Your House

Many vegetables actually grow on vines that will easily trail upwards on a trellis if trained. Planting in the ground beneath or in a sufficient container beneath a trellis and training the vines for peas, green beans, and more to grow up the trellis is a great way to use otherwise wasted space. It also creates a bright visual attraction for  your home.

Just because you live in a small space doesn’t mean you can’t easily grow a garden to help supplement your grocery budget.

These 5 ways to grow a garden in small spaces are just the beginning of many ideas available for creating small gardens in any space. Thinking outside the box is the best way to go when trying to create great gardens in a small home or small yard.

Use Strong Smelling Herbs

Take advantage of plants that repel pests for your herb garden. Planting pungent herbs like mints along with other herbs will help reduce the number of pests you have to deal with. Herbs like catnip are great for repelling ants, weevils, squash bugs, aphids, and Beatles.

Use Flowering Herbs

A great way to deal with pests in your herb garden is to plant herbs that will attract beneficial insects. Flowering herbs like lavender, basil and dill are a great way to attract butterflies and bees that will help pollinate your garden and make your plants stronger.

Use a Bug House

Place a bug house in your herb garden to attract insects like parasitic wasps that will deal with leafminers and hornworms and ladybugs that will help protect your garden from aphids. A bug house is an easy way to encourage beneficial bugs to come to your garden and stay to protect it from pests.

Use Salt

Snails and slugs can be a common issue in herb gardens. A line of salt along the garden bed edging is a great way to keep them out of your garden. Slugs and snails will back up and go the other way if they touch the salt instead of venturing into your garden beds and pots.

Use a Soap Solution

If aphids take over your garden you can save your herbs by spraying them with a safe and effective soap solution. A teaspoon of dawn dish detergent or liquid Castile soap in a spray bottle with water can help kill aphids when they take over your herb garden. Spray this solution on your plants getting the undersides of leaves in the evening so it has plenty of time to dry before the sun beats down on your plants.

With these tips, make your herb garden a great addition to your home garden. Besides fresh herbs are the best for cooking with!

Food you can regrow from scraps

Food is expensive. When it comes to making a budget for your family, you’ll notice that one of the highest costs you have is food. While it’s not possible to eliminate food from your budget, you can decrease the costs by growing your own food.

On that note, did you know that many of the scraps from foods you purchase on a regular basis from the grocery store can be regrown in your very own kitchen? Instead of throwing away food scraps, you can start thinking differently about them!

Below, I’ve listed 7 foods from the grocery store that you can regrow in the comfort of your home. If you already grow your own food right in your garden, you’ll have no problem growing your own produce from scraps.

Celery

One of the simplest foods from the grocery store you can grow from scraps, is celery.

Planting celery is very simple: Cut off the base or the bottom part of the vegetable and place it in a bowl with warm water. Place the container in a spot that has direct sunlight most of the day.

After a week, you’ll notice that there are leaves growing at the base of the celery. Once you see these leaves, it is now ready to be transplanted in the soil.

Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce is easy to grow from leftover scraps. Instead of throwing the bottom of the full head of lettuce in the trash, place it in a bowl with a bit of water.

Keep this bowl in a place with direct sunlight. Mist the leaves with water consistently. After two to three days, you will see that there are shoots of new leaves appearing. Once you see them, your lettuce is now ready to be transplanted or simply harvested for salads.

Bean Sprouts

Growing bean sprouts is easy. Just soak a handful of dry beans in water then leave it overnight.

Drain the water and place the beans in a container. Cover it with a towel, leave it overnight, then rinse it again the next day.

Keep doing this until you see the sprouts growing, then you can transfer them to your garden.

Onion

Another easy vegetable to grow, whether it is indoors or outdoors, are onions.

Cut the root of the onions off and plant it in a garden plot or container. Cover the root with potting soil but leave at least half an inch of the onion exposed. In a few weeks, you will start to see leaves growing.

For Green Onions, use the top part of the onion and leave the bottom 2-3 inches with the roots attached.  Place them in a container with water covering the roots. In no time you’ll see the tops of the green onions growing new green.  You can keep them this way and just continue using the tops and allowing them to grow in the water. Just change the water periodically and rinse the roots.

Garlic

Garlic is an easy way to start growing scraps with fast results.

For garlic, choose a whole bulb or individual cloves that have started to send out green sprouts. Place the bulb or clove in a small amount of water and change the water daily.

Potato

Did you know that you can grow a potato out of potato peelings?

Check the peelings to see if there are eyes on them. Cut the peelings into two to three-inch pieces but make sure that there are at least three eyes on each peel.

Dry these peelings, then plant them in your soil, about three to four inches deep. In a few weeks, you will see a potato plant starting to grow.

Tomato

Don’t throw away the seeds from the tomatoes! Rinse them and allow them to dry.

Once dried, you can start planting the seeds in a rich potting soil. Once the seedlings are a few inches high, you can transplant them outdoors where there is plenty of sunlight.

Turn your food scraps into golden nuggets. Instead of throwing them away, use them as another source of food. You are not only saving money, you are also assured that your family gets better and healthier food.

Get creative with pots

Get creative when you choose pots for your herb garden. While you can buy beautiful pots that fit your style at your local garden center, sometimes the best pots for your potted herb garden use a little creativity. Teapots and teacups make beautiful pots for smaller or grassy herbs that don’t need a lot of room for their roots. Galvanized tubs make beautiful large pots for growing multiple herbs together.

Plant to impress

Plant to impress when choosing your herbs. Look for herbs that will work well in your kitchen while adding style and a pop of color to your potted garden. Flowering herbs like lemon balm and chives can be a beautiful addition. Larger pots can grow bushy herbs like lavender with its delicate and fragrant purple blooms that will attract the eye wherever you place it.

Have some fun

Have a little fun and add decorations to your potted herb garden. Just like a full-size outdoor garden, you can have fun by tucking away little treasures in your potted herb garden to catch the eye. Small fairy garden items from your local dollar or craft store are a great option. you could even get crafty and make your own cute plant markers and painted stones to add to your potted herbs.

Use accents

Use accents around your pots to make them stand out. Small potted plants can be placed inside lanterns and birdcages to enhance your decor. This is a great way to spice up more ordinary leafy green herbs to add a touch of style.

I hope these ideas will help to inspire you to plant a beautiful and practical potted herb garden! I love that each of these ideas can be done on a budget by either purchasing cheap items or with items you already own!

CHIVES

Chives are a great herb for even the newest of gardeners. This hardy plant can hold up well if forgotten for a while. You can choose onion or garlic varieties to accent your cooking or grow both. The delicate flowers add a great pop of color for this grassy herb.

MINT

Mint is a favorite herb for new gardeners. It holds up well as part of your potted herb garden out outside. Mint thrives even if you forget to water it from to time and is perfect for cooling summer drinks and sweet desserts.

BASIL

Basil is a great herb when you need an easy to grow plant for your collection. Basil can grow well in the garden or a sunny window and is very versatile in the kitchen. Basil comes in a large variety of flavors allowing you to customize your garden to fit your needs.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary is an easy to grow herb that leaves a fresh scent. It can grow well potted making it a great option for adding a delicate grassy green to your potted herb garden. Rosemary is very useful in the kitchen for savory dishes. If you are a less than mindful gardener this herb will do just fine with a bit of neglect.

GERANIUM

Scented Geraniums make a great option for growing at home. Scented Geraniums come in a variety of scents in everything from floral to chocolate. Choose a variety that will accent your space and help build the beautiful herb garden of your dreams.

“Burpee Home Gardens presents “Garden Fresh” – an insightful yet fun vegetable gardening guide that answers your questions on everything from what to grow, to how much and when. This companion offers ideas, inspirations, and the support you need to explore – and succeed at – the world of home vegetable gardening.”

Click here to order you free vegetable garden guide from Burpee!

Best tips for drying and storing herbs

Garden season is off to a strong start! If you planted any herbs this year, you may already be seeing an abundance of the tasty things since they can grow with a vengeance.  Wondering what you can do with all the herbs you have without letting them go to waste? This post should definitely help you decide what to do with them!

Using herbs in your home is a wonderful way to incorporate not only the beauty they provide but the health benefits. You can use them for so many things. From making potpourri and sachets to making herbal remedies and of course cooking.

If you are new to using them and need a little help, here are 10 tips to help you dry and store herbs that will make it easier on you and help prevent you from ending up with non-usable product.

Getting herbs ready for drying

But first, here’s the two step process to get your herbs ready for drying:

Step 1: Gather your herbs. The best time to do this, is in the morning before the sun is shining on them. It’s also best to pick the herbs before the plants start to flower.

Step 2: Wash your herbs and pat them dry with a towel. Or, if your herbs look pretty clean, you can just shake them gently to get rid of any dust or dirt. At this point, you can also pick off any leaves that are yellowed, spotted, or discolored.

Now on to the drying and storing tips:

1. Find a nice, dark place to dry them.

They will need good ventilation and air, but if they are exposed to too much light, they will dry out too quickly and can become too brittle and fall apart too fast on you. You can use a fan on a low setting or put them near the air conditioning vent for the ventilation, but just not in a window. Another suggestion for location is to place them in an attic type space if you have it. The top of the refrigerator works too, if you are limited on space and just drying a few. Or on the top of a water heater. Those closets make a good ventilated place most of the time.

2. If possible, use drying screens to lay them on.

The drying screens will catch the smaller, loose pieces if they lose any and they get good air flow from both sides this way, which is ideal. Using the screens for thicker herbs, like rosemary that are more woody in nature, is perfect.

3. Hang them upside down, in bunches

Hanging them upside down, in bunches is another alternative to the flat screens. Use a rubber band around the stems and keep the bunches fairly small. The thicker they are, the longer they will take to totally dry. The ones in the center can still be damp, even when the ones on the outside look fully dried. Thicker herbs, like lavender for example, can take a couple of weeks to totally dry.

4. Using an oven to dry them will speed the process.

Put them on a baking sheet and set the temperature as low as your oven will go. You will need to move them and turn them every so often to keep them drying evenly, so the best way is to set the timer for about 30-40 minutes and then flip them when it goes off. Repeat until you feel they are dry enough, which may take up to 6 hours, but could be done in 3.

5. Use a food dehydrator.

A food dehydrator is especially beneficial if you tend to grow a lot of herbs. It’s even great for drying other produce like tomatoes, apples, pears, bananas and so much more. Dehydrators are great because the trays allow for great airflow that results in an even drying without overheating ensuring the perfect long-lasting dried herbs.

6. When storing them, avoid letting them get dusty.

One way to do this is to use a paper bag hanging over them, when they are in bunches, with the stems poking out of one end. Or if they are loose, use a thinner weight cardboard box, and punch holes in it. Cut flaps in the sides to help air flow and ventilation but folded in enough to cover and keep off the dust particles.

7. Use airtight containers.

For storing your herbs, you can use airtight containers, like glass jars with seals, similar to a mason jar or ones that have the locking lid and rubber seals. Make sure the containers are very clean and sterile. Any other chemical residue can contaminate the herbs and affect their scent and health benefits.

8. Freeze them.

You can also freeze herbs as an option for storage instead of glass jars. Use Ziploc bags that have a tight seal, and be sure to push out all the air before sealing them tight.

9. Storing for culinary use.

For herbs that are for cooking and culinary uses, crush the herbs well before storing. For herbs that will be used for teas, use the whole leaf and any blooms and do not crush them.

10. Create flavored oils

Another great option for storing herbs is to create flavored oils for cooking! Place your desired herbs in a glass jar that has a good seal, cover them completely with olive oil and keep them stored in a dark place. The herbs will infuse the oil with delicious flavors, creating a perfect addition to your dish.

I’m pretty certain that these tips will help you use up your abundance of herbs that you will see this year! I’d love to know how you use the herbs that you grow. Let me know in the comments!

Related herb articles:

• The easiest herbs to grow
• Tips for preserving herbs
• Tips for a beautiful potted herb garden

20 Reasons to Plant a Garden

Spring is here, which means it’s the perfect time to start thinking about planting a garden! There are so many wonderful reasons to grow a garden. Whether you want fresh produce, a little exercise, or just a relaxing way to spend your time, it’s a win all around.

If you’ve never planted a garden before, there’s no better time to begin than right now.

Need a little extra motivation? Here are 20 reasons to plant a garden and you will discover just how rewarding it can be. Trust me, it offers so much more than just fresh tomatoes. Let’s dive in!

1. You can enjoy chemical free food.

When you grow a garden, you can enjoy produce that is grown without chemicals or pesticides if you choose. It’s a great way to know what is in your food so you can enjoy safe and natural food choices.

2. You know where your food comes from.

Do you really know where your food comes from when you buy it from a grocery store? When you garden, you know exactly where it comes from because you grow it and pick it yourself.

3. Children will enjoy assisting with gardening tasks.

Children love digging in the dirt, and will enjoy helping you with your gardening tasks. They can pull weeds, plant seeds, and even help pick the harvest when you have a backyard garden.

Related: Make this Milk Jug Watering Can that the kids are sure to enjoy!

4. Your meals will be made with the freshest produce around.

Do you love fresh soups and salads? When you grow your own garden, you will have the freshest produce choices around. Enjoy fresh recipes each night thanks to your garden. Who wouldn’t love that?

5. Gardens bring about beautiful wildlife.

You will notice that gardens bring all sorts of wildlife to the yard. This means hummingbirds, bees and butterflies especially. It is fun seeing all the colors, sights, and sounds come to your yard as they investigate your plantings and take sips from your plants.

6. Gardens provide a chance to meet your neighbors.

When you grow a garden, you spend more time outdoors. This might mean being more visible to your neighbors and striking up a conversation or two. You might even find another neighbor who gardens, and get the chance to trade produce or plant starts.

7. You can assist people in need with your produce.

Chances are you will grow more produce than you need. You can always donate your extra produce to local soup kitchens or shelters where they can serve it to people in need. That’s a great reason to plant a garden!

8. Gardening tasks provide exercise.

Digging, weeding, watering, and planting can all provide some amazing exercise. If you need to be more physically active, gardening is a great way to do it.

9. Gardening provides quiet time for reflection.

Many gardeners love planting a garden because it provides them some time for reflection and meditation. If you need a little down time in your life, gardening may provide the perfect opportunity.

10. Gardening provides a chance to learn something new about nature.

When you grow a garden, it gives you the chance to learn new things about the plants you are growing. We are never too old to learn, and gardening gives the opportunity to let that happen!

11. You can enjoy active and fun gardening communities.

Online, you will find many active gardening groups, where gardeners exchange tips and tricks of the trade. You might also find local gardening groups, perfect for making friends and learning more.

12. You will always have fresh flowers for your home.

You don’t have to grow vegetables to have a garden! Enjoy fresh flowers in every room of your house when you grow a flower garden. Picking your own flowers each day will be fun and add so much color to your décor.

13. Gardening provides inexpensive gifts for family and friends.

Gardens provide the materials you need to make homemade jams, salsa, and so many other homemade gifts. This is a great way to provide inexpensive gifts for family and friends.

14. Gardening provides aromatherapy.

The smells of a garden can help you feel more relaxed and at ease. Forget lighting a candle for aromatherapy, just go to the garden.

15. Gardening is inexpensive.

You don’t need to be rich to plant a garden. Most of the items you need can be found around the house or even at your local dollar store. Seeds, soil, and pots can be found for cheap, which means you can grow so much food for less.

16. You can save money on your weekly grocery bill.

When you grow your own food, you will be saving heaps of money on your weekly grocery bill. You can grow items like tomatoes and cucumbers at pennies per pound, which is way less than most markets.

17. A garden can be an extension of your home.

A garden can feel like another room of your home. Place a small bistro table and chair in your garden so you can enjoy dinner or drinks in it.

18. Fresh food can be grown well into the Fall months.

Some plants can thrive well into the cool months. This means eating fresh and saving money even as winter approaches.

19. Gardens add curb appeal.

A garden can make your landscaping look nicer and add some curb appeal to those passing by.

20. Gardening helps the planet.

Flowers in your garden can help bees and butterflies pollinate our planet and keep it looking lush and beautiful!

In the end, planting a garden is about so much more than what you grow, it’s about how it makes you feel. From the satisfaction of nurturing something from seed to harvest, to the simple joy of stepping outside and seeing your hard work come to life, gardening offers rewards that go far beyond the surface.

Whether you start small with a few pots or go all in with a full backyard garden, every effort counts. So grab your tools, get your hands a little dirty, and give it a try. You might discover a new favorite way to save money, reduce stress, and enjoy the little moments of everyday life.

Related Gardening posts:

• 5 Ways to Grow a Garden in Small Spaces
• 10 Best Vegetable Gardening Books
• How to Earn Money from your Garden
• How to Start Seeds Indoors for Beginners
• How to Easily Get Started Container Gardening

How to Earn Money from your Garden

Odds are, when you started your garden you were not thinking about how you could earn money from it. Over time you may have seen a bit of potential and started to think about how you could make money from your garden. Even a small thriving garden can earn a bit of extra money. If you are skilled or have plenty of space you can earn even more.

Today, I’d love to outline some ways that you can Earn Money from your Garden.

Sell extra produce

Often, the first issue that makes you think about how you could earn money from your garden is an overabundance of produce. You may be wondering just how you could ever use up that many tomatoes. Selling that extra produce is a great way to earn some cash and help save someone else some money. First, offering the produce for sale to friends and family will definitely help you reduce your overabundance. If you still have produce leftover, post a sign in front of your yard advertising produce for sale. You may have many neighbors stopping by!

Selling canned goods

Check your Province or city’s food laws to see if you can earn money from your garden by canning extra produce and selling the jars. Selling homemade jams, jellies, and other canned goods just might be the answer for you. Due to law, your sales are often limited to a few thousand a year, but that’s perfect for using up the extra food from your garden. Homemade canned jams and jellies make great gifts around the holidays and can end up selling very well.

Sell plants

Are you a whiz at getting seeds to sprout into strong thriving seedlings? Do you have plants in your garden or pots that need to be thinned out? Selling plants to other gardeners in your neighborhood is a great way to earn extra money from your garden. If you do not have plants to sell how about seeds? Cuttings from that prize plant your neighbors all love?

Teaching others gardening skills

Have you been gardening for years and have a beautiful thriving garden that neighbors admire? Why not offer to teach gardening classes in your home garden or even at the local library for a small fee? Depending on local interest, you can earn a good bit of money running classes on the topics of caring for plants, propagating cuttings, and keeping plants alive for the not so green thumbs. Often a bit of education is all that stands in the way of a thriving garden. Many parents are looking for summer activities for their children and learning to garden could be a great use of time and energy.

The important part of making money with your garden is to not allow the focus on earning to take the joy out of your garden. If you lose the joy that made your garden thrive in the first place, your garden will suffer. So start out small, have fun, and make the most of the opportunities that come your way.

Have you tried making some extra money from your garden? How did you do it?

Here are 10 things you should grow in your garden this year:

Lemon Grass.

Lemon Grass should be at the top of your list for your garden this year. This ornamental plant can be grown nearly anywhere in a pot. It keeps bugs away, bringing you peace from those pesky things. It can also be used to season and add flavor to foods. This Fresh Lemongrass Tea looks so refreshing!

Tomatoes.

This versatile plant can be used for so many dishes and even as a snack. (Sprinkled with salt and pepper…yum!) Tomatoes are packed with vitamins and are easy to grow. I especially like growing cherry tomatoes in containers.

Bell peppers.

With more vitamin C than an orange and plenty of flavor, bell peppers are a great addition to your garden and freeze well for later.

Bush beans.

Bush beans can be grown under plants that grow tall. Beans put nitrogen into the soil making them perfect companion plants to Carrots, Beets, Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, Cauliflower, Celery, Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Kale, Peas, Potatoes, Radishes, Strawberries and Swiss Chard.

Pumpkin.

Pumpkins make a great ground covering plant that can shade the roots and stems or taller plants helping them thrive in the summer heat while providing you with great food in the fall harvest.

Basil.

This herb repels bugs and other pests helping to protect your garden while providing you with a tasty food for your table. Basil also makes a great edible edging plant for flower beds, helping maximize space. This Cold Pesto Pasta Salad is a great way to put basil to use.

Strawberries.

You will find in most areas the selection of fruit you can grow is limited. Strawberries are a great fruit that will grow nearly anywhere making it the perfect addition to your garden. They keep coming back better year after year and make a great potted plant.

Spinach.

If you’re looking for a green filler plant for your garden, spinach is just the plant for you. Spinach is high in vitamins and minerals, grows well in shaded areas with just a few hours of sun per day, and has nearly limitless ways to use in the kitchen.

Oregano.

Oregano is a classically Italian herb packed with medicinal qualities as well as a potent flavoring for your favorite dishes from pasta to pizza. This plant also makes a good filler plant that provides great food for your family.

Radishes.

When it comes to quick growing veggies that can help feed your family in less time, radishes are a great way to go.

I’d love to know what you like to grow in your vegetable garden every year. Let me know in the comments below!

Arbico Organics has a free Garden Journal download available! Here is what the journal will help you with:

• Plot your garden to maximize your space in the most efficient way possibe.
• Monitor quality, health and yields of different crops/plantings season on season.
• Time pest control applications – preventive measures, beneficial insects, sprays, etc. – to ensure effectiveness.
• Keep track of year on year trends to accelerate your learning process as a gardener.

Get your free Garden Journal Download here.

Request the FREE Gardener’s Idea Book from Proven Winners!  The 36 page booklet is full of gardening inspiration.

Sign up to get your free garden idea book here..

Because it grows so abundantly, you might be searching for ideas on how to put it to use. Here are 10 uses for lemon balm that you’re sure to enjoy:

To Repel Mosquitoes

Lemon Balm is a great herb to have in your outdoor living spaces because it’s known for repelling those pesky mosquitoes! I currently have Lemon Balm in a planter with some colorful annuals next to our patio table. You could also try rubbing a few leaves over your arms and legs so the lemon scent is on your skin, warding off the mosquitoes.

Simple Syrup

Each summer I like to make up a batch of simple syrup so I can enjoy some delicious summery drinks. Sometimes I like to add some lemon balm leaves for an extra special treat. All you need is

• 1 cup of packed lemon balm leaves
• 1 cup of water
• 1 cup of sugar

1. Bring all the ingredients to a boil for 1 minute, until sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and cover.
3. Let stand 30 minutes.
4. Strain the leaves from the syrup.
5. Store the syrup in the refrigerator.

I like to use the mixture in lemonade and iced tea or in club soda to make Italian sodas.

To make Tea

Dried or fresh lemon balm leaves are great for making a calming tea. Lemon balm is also known for fighting colds and flu so drinking a cup of lemon balm tea is sure to make you feel good!

Infused Honey

To make lemon balm infused honey, pack a jar half full of lemon balm leaves then fill it up with honey. Let the mixture sit for a month or so before straining. This infused honey is perfect for using in tea, desserts, and more.

For Cold Sores

Lemon balm can be an effective way to treat cold sores. You could create a lip balm by infusing a carrier oil (almond oil, jojoba oil…etc.) with some lemon balm, then combine with some beeswax to get lip balm consistency.

In desserts or fruit salads

Add a few tablespoons of chopped lemon balm leaves to fruit salads to impart some lemony flavor without making it too sour.  You could also try mixing some chopped leaves with yogurt to use as topping for fruit salads or for creating parfaits. It’s even yummy in fruit crisps and pies.

Make a Sleepy Time Syrup

Put about 3/4 cup lemon balm leaves into a small pot and add just enough water to cover the leaves. Simmer, covered partially, until the liquid is reduced in half. Strain out the leaves. While still quite warm, measure out about 1/2 cup of the concentrated tea and stir 1/4 cup of honey into it. You can add more honey to taste, if you’s like. Store in the refrigerator for about a week. Dose by the spoonful at night to help calm and relax everyone from children to adults. (Keep in mind that honey should not be given to infants under one year old.)

Use in bath water

How about a nice lemony scented bath? You’ll feel relaxed and refreshed! You could either sprinkle some leaves right in the tub or you could put some in a cloth bag and hang it from the tap. (and let the water run through it while you fill it up.)

Use in iced tea

Another drink I like to make in the summer is Sun Tea. Along with the tea bags, sometimes I like to add some lemon balm or even mint for that matter.

Use to make infused water

It’s crucial to drink a lot of water, but let’s face it, plain water can be boring! Jazz it up by placing some lemon balm leaves and some fruit to your water to make it more exciting to drink.

For those of you that grow lemon balm, what are your favorite ways to use it?

Attracting butterflies to your garden is not only ideal because of their beauty, but because they can help pollinate your flowers and plants as well! Butterflies are an excellent asset to your garden, which is why attracting them should be on your to do list. Attracting butterflies doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult; in fact, you can get them to come flocking for just pennies! Take a look below at 7 frugal ways to attract butterflies to your garden so you can enjoy them and the benefits they bring all season long.

1. Place out “sweet spots.”

Give butterflies sweet spots to feed on when you place out shallow lids with sugar water in them. The lids of Pringles cans or butter containers are perfect for this task. Then, watch the butterflies come and take a sip.

2. Try sponges.

Cut up sponges into cubes and soak them in sugar water. You can then place the sponges out in your garden and wait for butterflies to find then. They will love perching on the soft sponges and drinking the sweet water.

3. Give them watering stations.

You can do both of the suggestions above using plain water instead of sugar water so the butterflies have a place to get a cold drink. They get thirsty just like we do, and will flock to spots where water is available for them.

4. Plant ground cover.

Plant some low laying plants and ground cover that butterflies can find shade in. They will appreciate a retreat from the sun and enjoy a shady place to lounge in.

5. Plant butterfly friendly blooms.

Butterflies love Rose of Sharon, Butterfly Bush, and many other flowering bush varieties. Add some of these plants to your flower beds and landscaping and the butterflies will return year after year.

6. Forget the pesticides.

If you use pesticides in your yard, they will scare and/or kill butterflies off. Instead, avoid using chemicals in your yard and by all means avoid pesticides. Try natural pesticide options instead such as lady bug releasing or a simple spray of Dawn dish soap and water.

7. Let them eat fruit.

Butterflies love fruit rinds and peels. Place these items in shallow dishes and place them out for butterflies so they always have a snack on hand!

See how simple it can be to bring beautiful butterflies flocking to your yard? Give these tips a try and in no time you will be enjoying beautiful butterflies in your garden, even on the tightest of budgets!

I have an assortment of perennials in the flower bed, but I moved them all over to one side to make room for veggies.  Because it’s still not a big space for growing, I really only want to grow carrots (my daughter loves them raw!). I thought I’d try beets because I love them roasted on salads. Kale because we like to make kale chips.

So the picture shows where I’ll be planting stuff. I might add peas in the back so they can climb the fence.

I will have some containers.  I’ll have my herbs (Basil, tarragon, chocolate mint and strawberry mint), tomatoes and lettuce in containers. They grow well that way.  I’m also trying out these Smart Pots for the tomatoes.  They seem really great!

My mom will have her big garden again this year so I’ll be sure to trade some weeding time for cucumbers, zucchini, blackberries, potatoes, onions and what ever else she grows. 🙂

What will your garden look like this year?  

7 Garden Remedies That Will Save You Money

1. Make your own slug trap.

Are slugs becoming a problem? Stop them in their tracks by placing a shallow dish in your garden and filling it up with beer. Any beer will do, and you only need a few tablespoons. The slugs will become attracted to the liquid, crawl in, and meet their demise. No more slugs!

2. Say goodbye to bunnies.

Are bunnies coming in to nibble on your plants? No problem. Just add a few marigolds to your border. Marigolds and their scent are said to keep bunnies from hopping in and enjoying an all you can eat buffet.

3. Banish bugs for good.

Fill a spray bottle up with warm water and a few drops of Dawn dish soap. Shake it up well and spray it liberally on plants where bugs such as aphids are present. It is a natural way to kill the bugs and enjoy a pest free garden.

4. Keep squirrels from digging.

Squirrels love digging up bulbs and plants. Keep this from happening by placing hair clippings along the base of the plants. Squirrels hate the texture and it will stop them in their tracks.

5. Save your egg shells.

Egg shells are calcium rich and perfect for enriching the soil. Save your egg shells, crush them up, and stir them directly into your garden soil. Your soil and plants will love the natural boost.

6. Try some coffee grounds.

Coffee grounds can also enrich your soil and give your plants a boost. Save your coffee grounds and stir them into your soil, your compost, or just add them around the base of your plants. The grounds will enrich the soil better than any chemical alternative could.

7. Keep birds at bay.

If birds want to come and nibble on your plants, lay a light netting over the top. Most home and garden shops carry these nettings and they are so easy to use. Plus, since they are so light they are very visible either, yet they are just enough to prevent birds from pecking.

Enjoy a beautiful garden for less and with less chemicals when you give these 7 garden remedies a try!

How to Start a Neighborhood Garden

Step 1: Have a planning session.

Gather all of the neighbors together who wish to participate. It’s ideal to have anywhere from 5-15 neighbors involved. Meet together and discuss a few important details such as where the garden will be and what plants will be going into it. Decide the size of the garden and if it will be a container, raised bed, or in ground garden. Listen to everyone’s ideas and pick a location that is central to the neighborhood. A neighbor may wish to donate space or you can opt for raised beds or container gardens along some shared land.

Once you know what you want to plant, you can create a budget for your garden. When it comes time to purchase the plants, have each participant pitch in a designated amount. Choose together what this amount will be so you can pick an amount that works for everyone. Once money is collected, choose a captain (or two) to take on the task of purchasing plants and supplies.

Step 2: Assign jobs.

Invite everyone to share their talents when taking care of the garden. Assign jobs to each participant so everyone has a part with the care of the garden and earns their share. Jobs will include weeding, feeding and fertilizing, watering, and of course harvesting. Someone should be checking on the garden daily, so create a chart for participants to sign up for days/tasks.

Step 3: Have a planting party.

Once you have your land picked out and your jobs in place, it’s time to have a planting party! Gather on a sunny day and start tilling the land, planting your produce, and setting up any necessary fencing or pest control. This can be a fun day for all involved as you work together to get your garden looking great.

Step 4: Practice maintaining the garden.

Make sure you keep up your end of the bargain by tending to the garden as needed and as designated. Stay in contact with the other gardeners so any issues in the garden can be discussed.

When your garden is ready to be harvested, head on down and start picking! Allow all participants to take part in harvesting and share what is collected. This is a great way to enjoy all of your hard work!

Growing a neighborhood garden takes a little work, but the end result is worth it. Give these tips a try and see how rewarding it can be to grow your own!

9 Tips for Gardening on a Budget

Are you ready to “get growing?”  The arrival of spring has many ready to get outdoors and start planting their gardens, but what if you are working on a limited budget? Well the good news is, gardening doesn’t have to be expensive, and in fact it can be a great way to save yourself some cash in the long run. If you are considering planting a garden this season and want to do so for less, take a look at these 9 tips for gardening on a budget. You will be amazed at how easy it can be to “get growing” for less!

1. Start your seeds indoors.

Sure you can buy seedlings, but starting your own seeds indoors is cheaper! A seedling cost at least $1-$5, while you can get an entire pack of seeds for $1 or less. So start your seeds indoors using seed starters and some basic soil, and you can have your own seedlings in no time. (Read this how-to post for details on how to start your seeds indoors!)

2. Check out your local dollar store.

Dollar stores have a great selection of gardening gear for just $1 each. Choose from seeds, flower pots, gardening gloves, fertilizer spikes, watering cans, starter trays, and more! It is a great way to build your gardening stash for less.

3. Use natural fertilizers.

Instead of buying plant food and fertilizers, try making your own! Crushed egg shells and coffee grounds make excellent plant food. You can also use fruit peels to help nourish the soil and keep your plants healthy.

4. Practice chemical free pest repellent.

Again, you can buy your own pest repellent, but why not make your own for less? A simple spray bottle of water and a few drops of Dawn Dish Soap can help keep many pests at bay! This is a great way to save cash and omit chemicals in your garden.

5. Start a rain barrel.

Instead of spending money on watering your garden, catch rainwater instead. A rain barrel is the perfect trick for catching rain perfect for watering your garden with. Even a small barrel or bucket can give you enough water to keep a small garden satisfied.

6. Make your own garden markers.

You can make garden markers out of all kinds of household materials. Try making some from wood craft sticks and markers to get started. This is a great way to keep your garden organized for less.

7. Team up with friends.

Team up with friends and neighbors  to borrow each other’s gardening tools and equipment. You can even share seedlings and thinned out plants you no longer need. This is a great way to get the items you need for cheap or even free.

8. Use a small space.

Rather than tilling up a large piece of land for a garden, try out small space gardening!  Living in a townhouse, we actually don’t have the land for a big garden so I put container gardening to use.  Sometimes that might even feel overwhelming. If so, try growing just a few herbs that you often buy from the grocery store.  Or grow a lasagna garden so you have all the ingredients for a delicious marinara sauce on hand.  Here are a few more ways to grow a garden in a small space.

9. Look into community gardening.

Community gardening could be a great option for those of you that want a big garden but don’t have the space or want the time commitment. Do a little research about the community garden options in your city to see if this might be a good fit for you.

Gardening is a great way to grow your own food and save some cash. Give these tips for gardening on a budget a try and see how easy it can be to grow for less.

See the other articles in this series, here.

Now here’s a great idea for reusing those containers that grocery store roasted chickens comes in!  Start your garden seeds in them!

Head over to Read Between the Limes for more tips.

You see, I’m really good at deciding  that I’m going to do something, just not so good on the follow through 😛  Maybe next year!

I still haven’t planted my lettuce seeds or my potatoes.  But, I was proud of the fact that I scored some free seed potatoes by putting a call out on a local Facebook Buy & Sell site!  I’ll get to planting them this week, promise. 🙂

Here goes for my first update.

First up, is a picture of my flower pot, mints (chocolate and apple) and tomatoes.  I hope to make delicious teas this year using those mints! (read all about apple mint here.)

This year, I found a window box variety of Roma tomatoes and the other cherry tomato is a Sweet 100.

I’m not a huge fan of dried rosemary so I bought a rosemary plant that I hope to use fresh in my cooking.  Not pictured, is a basil plant I have at the front of the house.

Last year I had beans and peas planted in this big container, but they didn’t really grow well.  So, this year, I decided to try something different and create a mosquito planter!  I’ll have more details about it in a seperate post in the near future.

I’ll be back with another update soon because there’s been growth since I took these pictures and I’ll have more planted!

How’s your garden doing?

If you love cooking with fresh herbs, you will want to make space in your garden for basil and oregano. Both come in handy when making salads, marinades, infusions and more. If you are new to growing these herbs, take a peek below at some tips for growing and using basil and oregano in your own garden. They are easy to grow and practical herbs you are sure to enjoy.

Basil:

When planting basil, you will want to remember these basics:

• This herb needs 6 to 8 hours of good sun
• Avoid planting until after the threat of frost has passed.
• Plant your basil plants a good 12-18 inches apart.
• Soil should be well drained, and you may fertilize twice during the growing season.

Here are some wonderful ways you can enjoy basil at home:

• Crumble leaves on top of your pizza, garlic bread, or other baked dishes.
• Add a few leaves to a bottle of olive oil for some extra flavor.
• Plant basil in your yard to help repel certain varieties of pests.
• Blend the leaves into pesto to freeze and use later.
• Add basil leaves to your salad, dips, and even soups.
• Basil can even be added by the leaf to your pasta dishes.

Now, let’s explore another great herb, oregano!

Oregano:

When planting oregano, you will want to remember these basics:

• Oregano doesn’t mind shade. Therefore a good 5-6 hours of sun is plenty.
• Well drained soil is a must when growing this herb.
• Cut away dead stems and foliage as the plant grows to encourage new growth.
• Give plants a good six inches in between each to grow.
• Oregano does not respond well to fertilizer, so just be sure to take proper care of your plants so they thrive.

Here are some wonderful ways you can enjoy oregano at home:

• Add some crumbled oregano to your pizza and pizza sauces.
• Add a few leaves to your pasta dishes and casseroles.
• While your soup is simmering add a leaf or two of oregano for more flavor.
• Infuse a bottle of olive oil with oregano leaves.

So what are you waiting for? Give these herbs a try and your table will never lack flavor!

Most people associate the herb dill, with a jar full of dill pickles. If you love the flavor of dill, you’ll want to try growing your own so you always have it on hand. Growing your own dill is easy, just take a look below at some helpful tips to get you started. This is a fun and functional herb that is easy to enjoy and even easier to use!

How to plant and care for dill:

• Plant dill in the early summer when temperatures have reached at least 70 degrees.
• Plant your dill plants a good 12-18 inches apart from each other.
• Dill pairs well when planted next to cabbage, so if you are growing cabbage they make great companion plants.
• Water frequently, daily if the weather is especially hot and dry.
• Remove any yellowing or dry, dead foliage as soon as it appears.
• Take care to protect the delicate plants from strong wind or heavy foot traffic.

Once you have grown a healthy harvest of dill, you’ll want to use it! Dill can be used in a variety of ways around your home and yard. Let’s take a look at some of those ways below:

How to use dill:

• Add some fresh dill to your fish before baking.
• Add dill to your assorted oils and vinegars for extra flavor.
• Pickle your own vegetables adding dill for extra zest.
• Pep up your salads and dips when you add some fresh dill.
• Plant dill in your flower beds to attract bugs that would eat harmful pests.
• Add some dill to your potato salad to make it a crowd favorite.
• Dill adds unique flavor to soups, marinades, and stews.

Dill is a fun herb that can be used and enjoyed in so many ways. Try growing your own batch of it this growing season so you have plenty on hand for all of these ideas. You will be so glad you did!

Tips for Preserving Herbs

Freeze them.

To freeze your herbs all you need to do is break them apart while fresh and place them in ice cube trays. Add a little water, filling the tray about half way full. Freeze the tray and when you need some herbs in your cooking, all you need to do is pop a cube out and toss it in. Cool!

Press them.

You can press herbs between pieces of wax paper and store them in a cool place if you wish. While they don’t last as long this way as they would if you froze them, it will still help extend their life. This way is especially helpful if you want to use the herb in its original leafy form, such as in a salad or dip.

Dry them.

You can always take the old fashioned route and dry your herbs. Gather them into a small bouquet and tie them with string at the end. Hang them upside down in a cool and dark place until dry. This can take anywhere from 10 days to 2 weeks. To use, just crumble and toss in your favorite dish.

Add them to oil.

You can take fresh herb sprigs and toss them directly into your bottle of olive oil to create infused oil. This works especially well with basil. In no time the flavor will spread throughout the oil giving it a gourmet taste!

Infuse your beverages.

If your herbs are about to go bad and you need to use them quickly, you can infuse your beverages with them. Just clean the herbs and toss them into your teas, lemonades, and fruit drinks. They will infuse the beverage and even stay good for several days this way. See this post for 7 Infused Water Recipes.

Don’t let those herbs go to waste. Give these tips a try and prolong their life easily!

You may not have a great deal of land to plant on, or perhaps you don’t have the best soil conditions on the land you have. No worries. Did you know that you can still grow herbs indoors and enjoy the fresh taste and health benefits all year long? Growing your own herbs indoors is easy. Just take a look below at some helpful tips to get you started. In no time, you will have fresh and tasty herbs right at your fingertips.

Tips for Growing Herbs Indoors

Find a sunny spot.

You will want to place your herbs in a spot that gets a good 6 hours of sunlight a day. Take a few days to observe where the sun likes to settle in your home. That way, when your pots are ready you will have the perfect home for them. You also want to be sure the spot is away from heavy traffic or heat vents that can cause drying and damage.

Pick the perfect pots.

You can use various sized pots for your herbs, but your best bet is to keep one plant per pot. A 6-8 inch pot for each herb is perfect. Put some pebbles at the bottom of the pot for drainage and be sure your pots are placed on a saucer so catch any water drips.

Choose hardy plants.

Find plants that have strong stems, bright greenery, and are not withered or yellow. You also want to pick plants that have a moist yet tough root base. By choosing strong plants, you can make sure they are off to a strong start.

Pick easy to grow varieties.

If you are new to growing herbs indoors, try easy to grow varieties such as oregano, basil, and rosemary. All of these are quite hardy, don’t take up a great deal of space, and are easy to tend to. Chances are, they are also ones that you will use in your cooking most often!

Tend to your plants properly.

Always remove dried or spent foliage so the plant can use its energy elsewhere. Water as needed, keeping the soil moist at all times. Chances are you won’t need to weed your pots, but if you notice any weeds sprouting up be sure to grab them. You can add a few fertilizer pellets if you wish, being sure to follow package directions. To use your herbs, always take the foliage from the bottom of the plant, leaving the newer, younger greenery at the top to keep growing.

See how simple it can be to grow your own herbs indoors? Give these tips a try and you are sure to have herbs at your fingertips all year long.

Herbs to Use for Pest Repellent:

1. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm smells great and it is perfect for keeping bugs at bay. Plant it around your patio or keep a pot of it on your picnic table. Mosquitoes will stay clear of it and you will be protected. You can also rub the lemon balm directly onto your wrists for extra protection.

2. Basil

Flies hate basil! Plant a little basil in your flowerpots that decorate your patio or other social areas of your yard. This way, the flies will go elsewhere and let you entertain in peace.

3. Chives

Chives are not only tasty, but they repel a great deal of pests as well. Japanese beetles and aphids won’t come near them, so plant a plug or two of chives near the flowers you wish to protect from these pests.

4. Fennel

Fennel is tasty in your salads, but slugs and snails hate it. Plant a little fennel around blooms that these critters would otherwise devour. They won’t come near. It seems as though few plants repel slugs and snails, so this is one to try if these critters pose a problem in your yard.

5. Dill

You might plant some dill for your pickling needs, but it is great for pests too. Aphids and spider mites don’t stand a chance when dill is around. Tuck a plant or two in your potted plants and flower beds and never worry about them wreaking havoc on your yard.

Stop losing the battle with pests in your yard. Give these plants a try and enjoy a pest free yard the natural way!

Have you ever wondered how much money you can save when you grow your own herbs? The truth is, you can save a significant amount by growing your own as opposed to buying them at your local grocery store. And just think, with all of that money you save, you can buy that new patio chair you wanted, or perhaps some more flowers to beautify the yard. Take a look below at how the savings can break down for you and how much you can pocket after just one growing season.

First, let’s look at the cost of fresh herbs via your grocery store:
At my local grocery store, a small package of fresh basil is about $3. The cost of a basil plant at my local farmer’s market or greenhouse is $2. As it grows throughout the season, I can easily pick off three times that amount of leaves. So to buy 30 leaves fresh at my grocer it would be $9. Growing it on my own it costs $2.

Now, let’s look at the costs associated with growing your herbs:
To grow your herbs you will need some pots or land, soil, and fertilizer if you desire. You will also need to water regularly. While these supplies do cost money, they are not necessarily expensive and a little goes a long way. You can rest assured that growing your own herbs is inexpensive and does not take any real chunk of money out of your budget.

And remember, you only pick what you need:
When you grow your own herbs, you don’t pick them until you need them and you only pick what you need. This way, you avoid waste. If you bought a package of fresh herbs at your grocery store, you may not get to them all at once and some will certainly end up in the garbage. That’s like throwing money away! When you grow your own, you avoid this and only pick and use what you need for a particular recipe.

Over the course of a growing season, suppose you planted five herb plants at $2 each. For about $10, those five plants can easily grow $30 or more of fresh herbs. That is a wonderful investment and return on your money.

Try growing your own herbs and you will not only eat fresher, you will save money in the process.

How to Grow a lasagna garden in a container:

Making your own marinara sauce for lasagna using fresh herbs and vegetables straight from the garden is a staple of authentic Italian cooking. The secret to a rich, flavourful red sauce is using ingredients picked at their peak ripeness. A “Lasagna Garden” in a container is a smart way to make the most of your space, letting you grow everything you need, even without a large backyard!

The star ingredient, the Roma tomato, thrives in container gardens. Known for its thick flesh and bold flavour, it cooks down beautifully into a rich sauce. Classic marinara also relies on fresh herbs like basil, thyme, oregano, parsley, along with garlic to bring everything together.

Use a large container

Plant your tomato in the center of a large container. The bigger, the better. Aim for a pot that’s at least 18 inches wide or holds a minimum of 10 gallons, since both tomatoes and basil grow quite large and need plenty of nutrients. Place thyme and oregano around the edges, where they can trail over the sides without taking up too much root space. Parsley benefits from a bit more room, so plant it between the thyme and oregano to give it space to grow.

Use quality potting soil

The secret to a thriving lasagna garden starts with high-quality potting soil and the right added nutrients. Mix in a fertilizer, such as Miracle-Gro, to give your plants the boost they need to grow strong and healthy. Reapply the fertilizer about every three weeks by adding it to your watering can.

When you first plant your garden, water deeply until you see it draining from the bottom of the container. To make sure the moisture is reaching the roots, insert a stick into the soil and check how far down it’s wet. You’ll want the moisture to reach at least 6 inches deep. If it doesn’t, keep watering until it does.

Plant garlic chives

Growing garlic can be a bit tricky, especially depending on your climate. If it doesn’t thrive in your area, garlic chives are a great alternative. They offer a mild garlic flavour and their bright green stems add a fresh pop of colour to your sauce. Even better, they grow easily along the edges of a container.

Find sunlight

Make sure your lasagna garden gets at least six hours of sunlight each day. During especially hot summers, you may need to move your container into partial shade. Using planter wheels can make this easy, allowing you to shift your garden around to follow (or avoid) the sun as needed.

Enjoy your lasagna garden and happy container gardening!

Related Container Gardening articles:

• 5 container Gardening Mistakes to Avoid
• How to Get Started Container Gardening
• The Best Vegetables for Container Gardening
• 5 Ways to Grow a Garden in Small Spaces

Half success and half failure are my carrots.  One container is doing wonderfully, while the other has looked this way since the beginning.  I’m not quite sure what to do.  Should I pull them or wait it out?  Maybe I’ll replant, but I’m not sure there’s enough growing season left.

Both tomato plants are doing really well!  Lots of little green tomatoes and one red one waiting to be picked!

My potatoes are growing like crazy!  Just after I took this picture, I added some much needed soil.  I’m so curious to know what’s going on under the soil.  Will I see potatoes when I harvest??

The beans are doing well and look sort of pretty with the orange flowers!  But, unfortunately, I had to pull the peas that were sharing the container.  They just weren’t doing well at all.  Most likely because I neglected watering them for a couple of days.  I should really take my own advice that I shared in this post:  5 Container Gardening Mistakes to Avoid.

Uh yeah,  my lettuce looks pretty sad doesn’t it?  I let the lettuce grow too much before I picked them so I decided to cut it all down with my kitchen shears to get them to grow again.  We’ll see!

How is your garden growing?  What are your successes and failures?

Looking for more Gardening ideas?  Check them out here.

Ann sent along this wonderful repurposing idea!  Use an old wagon wheel as your herb garden!  I love it!

Unfortunately though, I couldn’t find the original source of this image.  If you happen to know where it originated from, please let me know!

Looking for more Gardening ideas?  Check them out here.

If you’ve been wanting to learn how to harvest lettuce, this new video should help you out!  Lettuce is one of my favourite things to grow in a container.  Not only does it grow fast, it’s virtually fool-proof too!  After learning the first year I tried to grow lettuce that it doesn’t like being in the hot sun for too long, I’ve been on a roll and have a couple containers every year.

Watch the video to see how I harvest spring mix lettuce leaves:

Lettuce also happens to be very easy to harvest.  Here’s how to do it:

1. The best time of day to harvest is in the morning, before the heat of the day wilts the leaves.
2. Pinch the leaves off about an inch above the soil.
3. Wash your leaves
4. Enjoy a delicious salad!

By pinching off the leaves (instead of pulling the roots out of the soil) you’re allowing your lettuce to keep growing throughout the season.

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I’m back with another video!  This time it’s all about how to harvest basil.  The way I show in the video will allow your plant to grow bushier, which means you should have plenty of basil leaves to enjoy all season long!

If you want to keep your basil fresh, place your freshly harvested stems in a glass of water rather than sticking it in the fridge. The basil will stay fresh in the water for a week or more. In fact, if you leave the stems in water they will eventually root and you can replant them in a pot or out in the garden!

Related:  How to Grow Potatoes in a Container

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5 Container Gardening Mistakes to Avoid

In the short time that I’ve had a container garden, I’ve learned a few things about what not to do when it comes to planting a successful garden.

In no particular order, here are 5 container gardening mistakes to avoid:

Don’t fill a big container in the wrong place

Have you ever tried to lift a big container filled with dirt and plants? I have, and it’s not fun. When using a large container, make sure to place your pot where it will stay, and then fill it.  You’ll save yourself a lot of sore muscles!

Also, if you’re planting a vegetable with shallow roots in a large container, you can fill the bottom third with empty plastic containers or Styrofoam.  This will make your container much lighter, provide good drainage and make it cheaper to fill since you’ll need less soil.

Don’t over-water your plants

To avoid over-watering your plants, make sure to use containers that have drainage holes.  Also, be sure to read the moisture requirements for the plants you chose and then follow what the labels say. A good habit to get yourself into before you water, is to check if the soil is moist. To do this, put your finger into the soil about two inches deep. If the soil at your fingertip feels dry, water.

A sign of over-watering is yellow leaves or limp plants. If you notice either of these signs, your soil is too wet.  Move the containers to a dry spot or stop watering until they dry out.

Don’t under-water your plants

Most container gardens need watering at least once a day in the summer. Sometimes small containers and hanging baskets, need watering more often because there is less soil to hold the water. When you water, make sure to really soak your plants.  If you only give them a tiny bit, the water will only wet the top layer of soil. which won’t reach the roots. I like to water until I can see it coming out the bottom of the pot.

Related tip:  Make sure you have your containers in a convenient spot for watering.  One year I decided to put some containers on our bedroom deck which meant I had to traipse through the house with a dripping watering can about four times a day because there was no hose. It was a real pain!

Don’t buy sick plants

If you’re purchasing starter plants rather than seeds, make sure to buy healthy plants.  Buying at a local nursery is a great place to start since the staff is usually full of valuable advice.  They’ll even help you pick out healthy, pest and disease free plants!

Don’t have unrealistic expectations

Before you jump into container gardening, take a look at your life. Will you be away a lot during the summer? Do you have dreams of a more relaxed summer with less to-do’s?  If so, you may want to reconsider having a container garden.  My first year of container gardening, I was really excited to start planting.  I think I bought every type of plant that was suitable for containers.  As the season went on, I lost my interest since watering the plants daily felt like one more to-do I didn’t want to do.  After that initial foray into container gardening, I have since learned to either cut back on the amount of plants or forget about it completely, to make it work with my life each year.

While it may seem there are a lot of don’ts when it comes to container gardening, it’s really not that difficult to grow delicious vegetables at home! Quite often I’m surprised at how “tough” plants can be! So be sure to keep these container gardening mistakes to avoid at the front of your mind!

Happy gardening!

Related Gardening Articles:

• How to Easily Get Started Container Gardening
• The Best Vegetables for Container Gardening
• 10 Best Vegetable Gardening Books

First up are my tomato plants.  This was exciting to see; there are tiny little green tomatoes growing!  Not long now before we’re eating them!

This bucket of carrots is doing pretty good too.  It’s doing way better than my other bucket because it received a lot of rain water when we were having a rainy week.

As you can see, this container of carrots is not doing as well.

The beans are doing very well!  And the peas too.  They’re hidden behind the beans.  Although they’re doing well, I’m not sure it was a great idea to plant them in the same container.  I had to unravel the peas from the beans.  I may have to put some sort of lattice in the container for the peas to climb.

Even though I only planted the potatoes a little over a week ago, they’re already starting to poke through the dirt!  It probably won’t be long until I have to add more soil, especially if we get some hot weather.  Wanting to know how to grow potatoes in a container?  See my post here.

I think I’ve got some lettuce harvesting to do if this lettuce picture is any indication!  I love growing Spring Mix type lettuce.  It’s so easy to grow and it grows fast too!

I forgot to take a picture of my basil, but I intend on doing a quick video showing how to prune it in the near future.

How is your garden growing?

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