I’m an award-winning gardener – make the most of tiny spaces, you can even grow on a windowsill or shady balcony
AN award-winning gardener is offering inspiration for homeowners with tiny outdoor spaces.
Even if you have just a windowsill or a shady balcony, there is potential for color and fragrance too.
Landscape Designer Tom Massey, with Chase Distillery, has urged people to reconnect with nature with his garden tips.
"Let nature guide your urban oasis. Even a small window box can spark joy and connection with nature," said Massey.
"Begin with a single plant and watch your garden grow."
GO POTTY ABOUT POTS
Urban living can often mean limited outdoor space. But don't despair, said Massey.
If the only space you have is a balcony or a window box, then embrace container potting.
You can grow flowers, herbs, and even small vegetables in pots. These can be rearranged to suit your mood on any given day. It is, in essence, a flexible garden.
Get creative and experiment with different plant combinations to expand your urban oasis," said Massey.
HEADY HEIGHTS
If you have a limited floor space for pots, then vertical gardening is the perfect solution to introduce plants.
These could be tomatoes or beans. But consider also climbing plants like fragrant and beautiful wisteria or clematis.
BUZZING POLLINATORS
Developing a small outdoor space into your oasis creates ideal conditions for pollinators.
They are an important part of the ecosystem and should be encouraged for future food security.
"Welcome bees, butterflies, moths, and other pollinators to your urban garden by planting nectar-rich flowers," said Massey.
"Try to extend the flowering season for as long as possible by planting plants that bloom at different times of year," he added.
"It's not just a garden; it's a functioning ecosystem."
Easy gardening tips to save money, maximize space, and repel pests
*If you click on a link in this article, we may earn affiliate revenue.
- Banana peels, vinegar, and coffee grounds are often recommended as natural fertilizers.
- Dollar Tree sells four packs of seeds for $1.25.
- Try a vertical planter like Amazon's Mr. Stacky 5 Tier Stackable Planter, $35 to make more use of a small space.
- Use netting like the Garden Netting Pest Barrier, $8, from Amazon to keep away bugs that eat your vegetables.
- Try sacrificial planting to reduce the use of pesticides and keep pests away from your garden. Deliberately growing certain plants to attract agricultural pests can keep them away from the plants you want to protect. Examples include marigolds, lavender, catnip, and chives.
- For pesky weeds in your garden, the Grampa's Weeder - The Original Stand-Up Weed Puller Tool with Long Handles, $45, from Amazon is a helpful tool you can use without having to bend over.
GARDEN GREENS
The pleasure of picking food from your mini garden can be all yours.
Plant herbs in pots, the list is endless. Or, if a cocktail is more your thing, grow garnishes such as mint, cinnamon basil, orange thyme, rose geranium, or lemon verbena.
SUNNY SIDE UP
If you have restricted space or even a shady area, select your plants carefully if you want them to thrive.
"Choose wisely, and your garden will flourish. Research plants suitable for your available light and space, ensuring they'll thrive in your urban garden environment," said Massey.
REUSE & RECYCLE
Plant containers can be mighty expensive but there are ways of creating color and character by using repurposed objects.
An old bucket, cooking pot, box, or even a pair of boots can be used to grow plants. Let your imagination go wild.
YEAR-ROUND GARDEN
With some careful planning, you can enjoy your garden all year round.
The secret is seasonal rotation. All it requires is some plant organization.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
Replace spring blooms with summer favorites and autumn harvests to keep your urban garden vibrant and let you experience the fruits of nature all year round.
"Keep your garden dynamic and ever-changing by rotating plants with the seasons. Embrace the beauty of each season and adapt your garden accordingly," wrote Massey.
