Have you ever picked your own produce? Have you ever seen the first flower buds from your own small garden? The feeling could be overwhelming. These are just some of the simple joys you get from growing plants at home.
A number of people are starting to take interest in having their own garden especially during these trying times that people are staying indoors. Whether you want to save money or start a new hobby, growing plants in your own garden can give an overall benefit for you.
However, do not frustrate yourself by starting with plants that are hard to maintain and care for. What is the use of tending for them when they will end up wilting anyway? Start with these no-fuss plants then you can work your way towards other plants of your choice. Here are some plants that are good to grow in your garden:
Veggies Right At Your Doorstep
Growing your own produce in your home garden is a good idea if you want to save up and eat fresh veggies. With your very own veggie garden, you’ll have access to fresh, pesticide/chemical-free vegetables for your healthy meals.
Potatoes
If you are going to grow your own potatoes at home, try cutting mature tubers into small pieces, dry them for a few days, and sprinkle them with garden sulfur. Place them in garden rows of mounds set at a foot apart then add some fertilizers to help them grow faster. Potatoes would require direct sunlight and moisture. After two months, that is about the time that the tubers will start producing.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes, on the other hand, are not only a very useful mix for your meals but something that gives an aesthetic pop to your garden. Though it is usually grown in potted plants, you may have to transplant them with a tall stake to successfully grow more produce. Cut-off transplant leaves at the bottom and places the root ball around 4 to 6 –inch deep soil.
Lettuce
Another easy-to-grow vegetable is lettuce. It may prefer to grow during fall and spring but it can also thrive year-round. Because of its variety of colors, textures, and flavors, it can truly be a treat in your salad. Direct sunlight and moist soil are its best friends. Water them early in the morning and protect them from cold with plastic tunnels or horticultural fleece.
Garlic
One commonly used vegetable especially in Asian countries is garlic. There are what you call the hardneck garlic grown for the scapes that do not have a long life span compared to the softneck garlic that is known for its spice and one that is always a good addition for culinary spices.
Herbs and Spices
Though herbs and spices bought at stores may be convenient, it can actually cost you a lot in the long run. If you want to have fresh, natural that is just a-pick-at-your-garden-away, growing herbs and spices is a superb decision.
Oregano
Oregano from the mint family are commonly in shades of bright green while some leaves range from dark green to yellowish colors. Well-drained soil most probably of sandy loam that is not over-watered is best because flavors can be affected depending on soil moisture. Most varieties need direct sunlight while others like the golden oregano want more shade.
Basil
Basil, on the other hand, is a well-loved aromatic herb used in pasta, soups, pizzas, and meat dishes. You can grow Basil even indoors Just make sure that it has an ample amount of sunlight and water. Pots must have drainage so that they will not have water stress. Some varieties are Thai Basil, Sweet Basil, Lemon Basil, Cinnamon Basil, Purple Basil and Spicy Globe Basil.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass may look simple but it is actually packed with antioxidants good for your eyes. Its popular citrus flavor is used for culinary purposes and tea. The multiple stalks coming from the same base enable it to grow in clumps. The leaves grow more than 3” tall and are just as wide, and also have sharp edges. And as it is native to the tropics they like warm areas.
Mint
Mints are good for garnishing desserts like whipped cream and cherries and also great with your ice cream. For good digestion have a mint tea every once in a while. Grow them in pots to be able to contain them as they spread fast and easily. Place it under full sun or partial shade. It is best with sand, clay, chalk, or loam soil.
Conclusion
Starting with the basics would lead you to a stress-free planting. Ask for tips from gardeners and do not exceed with caring for your plants, in order to avoid growing blues. If you believe you have given all the essentials for the plant to grow, just let it be. And soon enough you will be delightfully surprised that it has the buds, blooms, and growth you are waiting for.
