Starting a garden can seem daunting, especially for beginners. However, with a few essential tips, anyone can kickstart their sustainable garden journey:
Start small: Begin with a small plot or even containers to gain experience and build confidence. As you become more proficient, you can expand your garden gradually.
Choose the right plants: Opt for plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. Native plants are often more resilient, require less maintenance, and support local ecosystems.
Plan your garden layout: Consider the space available, sun exposure, and plant height when designing your garden layout. This will help optimize sunlight and ensure plants have enough space to thrive.
Water wisely: Use efficient watering techniques such as drip irrigation or soaker hoses to minimize water waste. Collect rainwater in barrels to conserve water resources.
Composting: Start composting kitchen scraps and yard waste to create nutrient-rich soil for your plants. Composting reduces organic waste sent to landfills and provides a sustainable source of fertilizer.
Here are some great options to get you started:
Leafy greens
Lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are quick-growing, nutrient-dense plants that thrive in most climates. They provide a constant source of fresh, healthy greens throughout the growing season.
Herbs
Basil, mint, rosemary, and thyme are versatile herbs that require little space and add flavor to a variety of dishes. Growing herbs reduces the need for store-bought, packaged herbs, which often come with excessive plastic packaging.
Quick tip: all types of mint can be invasive for gardens and surrounding areas. They likely won’t hurt any of the other plants around them, but use caution when planning.
Tomatoes
With countless varieties available, tomatoes are a popular choice for home gardeners. They’re packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and fresh homegrown tomatoes taste superior to store-bought ones.
Root vegetables
Carrots, radishes, and beets are excellent choices for beginner gardeners. These hardy crops can be sown directly in the ground, and their greens can be used for salads, reducing food waste.
Tips for transplanting seedlings:
- Choose a day when the weather is mild, between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and not windy.
- Water the seedlings well before transplanting.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the seedling.
- Gently remove the seedling from the pot or seed tray and place it in the hole.
- Fill the hole with soil and water the seedling well.
- Apply mulch around the seedling to help retain moisture.
Learn more about EvCC Sustainability! www.everettcc.edu/green
Mariya Zelenskyy – Media and Outreach Coordinator sustainability@everettcc.edu