A little greenery never hurts, whether it is an office, home or any other commercial space. Here are some tips to build your own, home grown patch of green.
1. Decide on a type
Are you going for a vegetable, herb or flower Garden? It is advisable to choose one as the soil may be conducive to one and not the other type of garden. If you choose to grow flowers, do you want the flowers or fruits to be annual or perennial? You can start small, and then slowly expand the size of your garden.
2. Pick an ideal place.
Most plants require 6-8 hrs of sunlight during the course of the day. Plant a couple of fruit seeds in different parts of the garden and see where it thrives well. Check plant tags or ask the staff at the nursery to learn about the amount of sunlight a plant would require. Make your seating area around the garden for fresh oxygen during leisure time.
3. Compost it up
Make your own compost. A 3-inch layer will take approximately four months to turn into natural fertilizer. Organic matter will give the soil a boost. If you decide not to dig and plant, in the same place, leave the organic matter on a surface to decompose. Test the soil to ensure that it is fertile and irrigable for your plants. Digging loosens the soil, so roots can penetrate more easily. However, digging when the soil is too wet or too dry can ruin roots too. So, be careful with your digging tools.
4. Choose your plants well
Some people tend to go over catalogues for months; some people head straight to the nursery and purchase whatever entices them. No matter how you decide to bring home a plant, ensure that you research well over the internet about the genus of plants that are suitable to a tropical climate. For example, some plants such as kale, can bear extreme cold while some may not withstand any season apart from autumn or summer.
5. Water therapy
Seedlings should never be allowed to dry, or else they would take more time to grow than required. Soil transplants should only be done when necessary, not otherwise. Water your potted plants slowly, to avoid it from seeping out. To prevent weeds from growing, cover the soil with a fair bit of mulch. Pine cones or pine needles, cocoa tips, bark ends etc will do too.
6. Have patience
The garden will take time to bloom. Water your plants regularly, and ensure that no weed or fungus grows in them. Use good natural fertilizer or pesticide. In addition, remember where you have sown the seeds and keep a check on them. If you see a delay in germination, the plant is already damaged.
We hope these tips act as a guide and help you build your own unique home garden. Happy gardening to you!