Recent events have led many people to think more about where their food comes from. Supply chain issues can create shortages in stores and may cause prices to rise. One of the best ways to feel more confident in your food supply is to grow some things on your own. Plus, it’s fun to grow fruits and vegetables, and you don’t have to have acreage to do it.
Go vertical
If you have a small yard or even just a small patio, think vertical when you’re planning what to grow. Many plants grow easily up a trellis or vertical growing structure. You can also plant strawberries, lettuces and tomatoes in hanging baskets. If you have a patio with a rail, there are even pots that are designed to fit over the rail, which is a great option for herbs and other smaller plants.
Prolific plants
When you’re gardening in a small space, you want plants that produce a lot in little time. Tomatoes and peppers tend to do well in containers, and they even come in patio varieties. You can use a large bucket or bin to grow potatoes, and in the right conditions, you can harvest pounds of them from one or two plants. If you’re unsure of which plants will work best for your area, consult your local garden center.
Create a strategy
When growing plants in small spaces, you may need to get creative. First and foremost, choose a sunny spot that’s easy to access so you can water your plants as needed. Succession planting works well with limited space since you can harvest different varieties of fruits and vegetables throughout the growing season. Understand your grow zone and research which plants grow best in your area.
Growing your own vegetables doesn’t require a lot of space. Know your growing zone and think about what vegetables you like to eat fresh during the growing season. Many plants do well in containers, and if you use all your available space, you can plant vertically to maximize your harvest. It’s very rewarding to grow your own produce, and it can give you peace of mind knowing you have more control over sourcing your own food.