The urban garden is the latest trend promoting responsible consumption and environmental awareness. At the same time, it is a fantastic idea to take the plunge and harvest your own food. In a very simple way, you can have your own eggplants, broccoli, celery, cucumber, zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes. It is also very easy to grow escarole, lettuce, spinach, lamb's lettuce, and strawberries. All in your own home and without chemical products.
Photo of an organic fruit and vegetable market taken during our trip to Bogotá.
But surely you are now asking yourself...but how do I do it?. I don't have space at home. Well, let me tell you that you don't need to worry about space. Because what matters are the benefits you will get from growing your own vegetables and greens in your own space. You will only need to have a small terrace or balcony or any indoor place in the house that is well-lit.
Two places to build your urban garden
- A small terrace: this is the easiest and most suitable place to set up your own urban garden. It would be ideal to build your garden at height, that is, by choosing raised containers of different sizes. In these containers, you will put soil, substrate, and plants or seeds. Growing at height will always be easier and cleaner. - Balcony: if your balcony is very small, it is best to build your vertical urban garden. You can use traditional rectangular planters or adapt pallets to your vertical space.4 tips for a successful urban garden
1.- Keep in mind how you are going to start planting: It is always easier and more successful to plant seedlings rather than your own seeds. Seedlings germinate faster and the result will be greater. 2.- Know what to plant in each season: It is very important to make the most of the hours of light in each season of the year. For example, if you have planted in January, you have to keep in mind that the garden should be as well-lit as possible. When the lighting is not very good, it is better to plant mint, thyme, and chives or cherry tomatoes. If you planted in spring, you will notice that it is in July when your garden is in full swing. Especially if you have planted peppers, beans, or tomatoes. 3.- Watering: My grandmother always told me that if I watered the plants too much, I would drown them. And indeed, that was always my problem; I watered too much. She taught me the trick of watering until the water starts to come out from the bottom. If we are in summer, you should water at least once a day and avoid direct sun. In winter, it is enough to water 3 or 4 times a week. Always keeping in mind the species, of course. Some plants need more water than others. 4.- Planting container: This is the moment when you will recycle by using wooden fruit crates. The size will depend on the chosen plant, as it must have adequate growth. The depth of the crate should be about 10-15 centimeters so that the roots can grow well. Don't forget to make holes to drain excess water.
Photos from Pinterest
And after this, do you dare to have your own garden at home?. Don't tell me it's not easy to grow and harvest your own vegetables and greens. Right?. We still don't enjoy our urban garden, but I assure you that it is in our plans to get one and as soon as we have it, we will show it to you.In the meantime, will you show us yours?.
If you feel like it, tag your photos with our hashtag #NEHCAASLOW.