Maegan-Leigh JacobsCreating your own oasis isn’t as challenging as it seems when living in a concrete jungle. With a few tips and tricks, you can grow and create your own urban garden! You’ll never have to worry about where you live again – and, bonus, urban gardening is more sustainable!
Let’s get urban gardening!
Scout for spaces
First things first, scope out your urban canvas. Look for nooks, crannies, and pockets of potential greenery. Balconies, rooftops, windowsills, or community gardens can all be your verdant playground.
Embrace the container life
Nowadays, space is a luxury. Enter the ever-versatile container. From old pots to upcycled buckets or repurposed crates, almost anything can hold soil and sow seeds. The added joy behind urban gardening is the creative aspect. You could try your hand at various container planting styles, like verticle gardening or creating raised beds.
Get the dirt on soil
No, we’re not dishing out gossip; we’re talking about the good stuff—soil! Ensure your chosen dirt is nutrient-rich and well-draining. Blend in some compost or organic matter for that extra boost. Your plants will thank you for this luxurious accommodation.
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Pick your plants
Choosing plants suited to your urban microclimate is crucial. Herbs like basil, mint, or rosemary thrive in containers. Salad greens, tomatoes, and peppers are also city slickers. If flowers are your jam, marigolds and pansies add pops of color to your urban oasis.
Water, sun, repeat
Plants are a bit like us—they need sun and water to thrive. Position your pots where they can soak up those rays and make sure they get their H2O fix. But remember, don’t drown them! A sprinkle here and there should do the trick.
TLC
Just like a city, your garden needs your attention. Keep an eye out for pests, give them a trim when they start feeling a bit shaggy, and whisper words of encouragement to your green friends. They may not talk back, but they’ll appreciate the sentiment.
Share the green goodness
Spread the green gospel! Share your surplus veggies or seedlings with your urban neighbours. Start a gardening club or exchange tips at the local community centre. Your green thumb could inspire a whole urban garden revolution!
Remember, urban gardening is not just about growing plants; it’s about nurturing a tiny ecosystem in the midst of a bustling cityscape. So, grab your trowel and let’s turn this concrete jungle into a thriving oasis, one plant at a time!
Article originally published on Woman&Home by Jade McGee.
Feature image: Pexels
