Gardening On A Budget

We all know that money is tight at the moment, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy your garden or your passion for gardening. Here are some handy hints for enjoying your garden during these tough financial times.

Grow your own vegetables, annuals, and perennials from seed

Source used (or free) tools and equipment

Collect and save seeds. Exchange them with friends and colleagues.

Repurpose and upcycle. For example, make planters out of old wheelbarrows or buckets; and use plastic food containers as seed trays.

Don't throw, grow it! Save seeds or root stalks from kitchen leftovers such as peppers, potatoes, garlic, onions, lettuce, celery, and carrots.

Take cuttings and divisions (propagation). Rather than buying plants, take cuttings and divisions of the ones you already have.

Buy small starter plants. Plugs are much cheaper than mature plants, meaning you can fill an entire garden bed for a fraction of the price.

Buy plants and garden tools and equipment when they are out of season. It can work out much cheaper.

Make your own compost

Grow organically. Skip the costly pesticides and fertilisers, and herbicides, and grow organically instead. Your garden may even be healthier as a result.

Overwinter plants indoors. Many types of tropical plants, annual flowers and herbs can be overwintered indoors, and you won't have to spend money buying new ones every spring.

Collect rainwater it saves money if you have a meter and is better for your plants.

Choose low-maintenance plants

Collect leaves. They form an excellent mulch, add nutrients to the soil as they break down, and protect plants in winter. Best of all - they're free!