The Thrifty Green Thumb’s Guide to Gardening on a Shoestring Budget
As a gardener on a budget, I’ve often found myself wondering how to create a thriving garden without breaking the bank. From seed to harvest, gardening can be a costly endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, I’ll share my top tips for gardening on a shoestring budget, from starting small to making the most of what you already have.
Start Small with a Window Garden
One of the easiest ways to begin gardening without breaking the bank is to start small. Begin with a few containers that would normally end up in the recycling bin – think sauce jars, yogurt containers, and plastic bottles cut in half. These make perfect mini planters for seeds or small plants, and can be placed on a sunny windowsill. Not only will this save you money on planters, but it will also help reduce waste and get you started on your gardening journey.
Start small with a window garden
Get Creative with Mulch
Mulch is a must-have for any garden, but it can be expensive to buy in bulk. Instead, get creative with materials you already have on hand. Shredded dry leaves, for example, make perfect mulch and are completely free. You can also check with your city or town to see if they offer free wood mulch for residents. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using a wood chip delivery service like Chipdrop, which will deliver free wood chip mulch from arborists looking to get rid of it.
Make Your Own Compost
Compost is another essential for any garden, but it can be pricey to buy. Instead, make your own using food waste and other organic materials. There are tons of tips online for Bokashi composting, which uses food waste to create a nutrient-rich soil. Not only will this save you money, but it will also reduce your waste and create a more sustainable garden.
Make your own compost
Grow Your Own Sprouts
Sprouts are a great way to add some green to your diet without breaking the bank. They’re easy to grow, fast, and don’t require any soil. Simply place them in a container on your windowsill and you’ll have edible growth in about a week. Plus, they’re a great way to use up any leftover seeds you have lying around.
Install a Rain Barrel
Rain barrels are a great way to save water and money on your bills. Simply place one near a downspout to collect gutter water, and use it to water your plants. Not only will this save you money, but it will also reduce your environmental impact and create a more sustainable garden.
Install a rain barrel
Grow What You Eat the Most
When it comes to deciding what to grow in your garden, it’s easy to get caught up in trying to grow everything. But the truth is, it’s more cost-effective to focus on what you eat the most. Think about what you buy most frequently at the grocery store, and try to grow those items instead. Not only will this save you money, but it will also ensure that you’re making the most of your garden.
Make Your Own Pest Deterrent
Pest deterrents can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. Instead of buying premade deterrents, try making your own using dishwashing liquid and water, or sprinkling chili pepper or garlic around your plants. Not only will this save you money, but it will also avoid the use of chemicals and herbicides.
Make your own pest deterrent
Grow Low Maintenance But High Yield Plants
Finally, when it comes to choosing what to grow in your garden, focus on low maintenance but high yield plants. These will give you the most bang for your buck, and require the least amount of work and upkeep. Some great options include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and squash.
Grow low maintenance but high yield plants
By following these tips, you can create a thriving garden on a shoestring budget. From starting small to making the most of what you already have, there are countless ways to save money and still enjoy the benefits of gardening. So why not give it a try? Your wallet – and the environment – will thank you.
