How to Garden Without a Garden

Mar 17, 2017, 13:46 PM
Don’t let limited outdoor space prevent you from experiencing the joys of gardening! Having a small yard or balcony doesn’t mean you can’t cultivate edibles or plants. As long as you have a window that allows for a steady stream of sunlight, you’ll be able to grow fresh flowers and tasty fruits any time of the year. Incorporating colourful plants and luscious foliage is the ultimate way to maximize your small garden space.

Flowers

Use your windowsills and ledges
Make use of your otherwise unusable space by adding planter boxes to your windowsills, which are designed to receive maximum sunlight without having to take up any floor space. These 2-feet boxes will easily host a multitude of herbs such as parsley, basil or chives. Herbs can usually be maintained with minimal fertilizing, a pair of shears and a small splash of water every now and then. These boxes can also serve as an accessory to your home by choosing plants with a variety of colours and shapes.

Flowers

Plant Up, Not out
If your only outdoor space is a balcony or if you have a very small plot of land, grow your plants vertically. Incorporate colour in your small space by planting flowers or veggies using a tall trellis in a garden plot, which will allow plants to climb their way up. Shoe organizers can also be turned into a vertical herb garden. Hang a shoe organizer in an area that will have high sun exposure, fill the pouches with potting soil, and plant delicious herbs that can be used to flavour your favourite dishes.

Flowers

Find a community garden
Many communities have local gardens that allow you to plant flowers and vegetables in a shared space. These gardens also serve to foster a sense of community amongst gardeners. Grow as much produce and perennials as your green-thumb desires, share with your neighbours, and learn about the existing plants in the garden. If your community doesn’t have a local garden, share with a friend or neighbour who doesn’t take advantage of their yard.

Flowers

Use hanging baskets
A colourful and creative way to display your flowers in a small space is through hanging gardens. With a multitude of diverse basket options such as woven, wood or wire, the possibilities are endless. Before hanging the basket, make sure to fill half of the container with soil, stir in some fertilizer, and plant your favourite flowers. To avoid any accidents, make sure your basket chain is rated for the weight of the pot.

Don’t miss the Upcycle Challenge: Eat Your Veggies! at the upcoming Ottawa Home & Garden Show (March 23 to 26) to see how local celebrities have transformed pre-loved furniture items into trendy, functional urban gardens.

Ottawa Home & Garden Show
EY CENTRE
MARCH 23 - 26, 2017