Many of us get more and more immersed in modern life and new technology and forget that our true essence is rooted in nature and daily contact with it is not harmful. Living in urban and apartment environments does not mean losing connection with nature. With just a little patience and creativity, we can create a green space in our homes. And what could be better than this garden full of edible plants and vegetables? It is possible to create an edible garden even in the smallest spaces. I’m Mehsa Rahtami and in this article I’d like to share some tips on how to create a garden full of delicious fruit.
1. Planning and designing the edible garden
First of all, you must have a proper plan. The first step is to choose the best space. When choosing a space, make sure it gets enough sunlight. Some plants such as tomatoes, peppers and leafy greens need direct sunlight and should be planted in a place with at least six hours of direct sunlight. Depending on the size of the space you have and the amount of sunlight it receives, you will need to decide which types of vegetables you want to grow. It is also important to note that flowers attract beneficial insects to pollinate vegetables and even prevent harmful insects from entering. So, try not to use too fine a mesh to enclose the area. Also, watch out for birds that may damage your vegetables or fruits.
2. Using vertical gardens and wall pots
If your garden space is small, do not neglect walls and vertical spaces. You can make the most of your space by installing curtains or using wall pots. Plants such as basil, mint, spinach and strawberries grow in these types of gardens. If you have converted your balcony into a garden, I suggest adding a grid with medium-sized holes, about 10 cm from the ceiling, and growing plants such as ferns, Madagascar jasmine, pothos and lipstick plants. Increase it visually. These plants grow on the netting and eventually cover it and give your garden a beautiful look.
3. Choosing the right plants for a limited space
Plants such as miniature tomatoes, ornamental peppers, basil, mint, spinach and strawberries are among the plants that can be successfully grown in limited spaces. Be sure to do your thorough research and avoid planting crops that require a lot of space, soil, or water. In addition, perennials such as rosemary and thyme are also good options for planting in small pots. Another important factor is the compatibility of plants with each other. Some plants like tomatoes and basil are compatible when grown together, but it’s best not to plant tomatoes near potatoes. If you have a larger space, try to organize your planting. Use straight lines and leave paths for easy access.
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4. Using the right soil and fertilizer
The most important influence on the growth of your plants at all stages is the use of the right soil and fertilizer. The soil you use should be rich in nutrients, so it is advisable to invest in the best soil for edible plants. For non-edible plants, you can use a more standard soil, provided that you provide a good fertilizer. Organic fertilizers and compost increase soil fertility and provide necessary nutrients for plants. After adding soil and fertilizer, place an organic mulch in the pot or around the plants to prevent weeds from growing and help keep the plant’s roots moist most of the time.
5. Smart irrigation techniques
Water is the most important element for the survival and growth of your plants. Pay attention to two key points: providing enough water for each plant and avoiding water wastage. Use drip irrigation systems, which have become very popular and effective today, because they deliver water directly to the plant’s roots. Keeping the soil moist is another essential part of irrigation, and to facilitate this, use soil moisture sensors. These sensors let you know when it’s time to water your plants. Avoid overwatering, as too much water can be harmful to some plants.
6. Use of artificial light in indoor spaces
If for some reason your space doesn’t get enough sunlight, don’t worry. You can use grow lights to create artificial light. These lights with different settings including blue and red light can provide optimal conditions for photosynthesis in plants. Using these lights, you can even start your garden in a closed space.
7. Harvesting and storage of products
Finally, after a lot of effort and patience, it is time to harvest your products. Remember that each type of vegetable or fruit has its own harvest time. To achieve the best quality and taste, you need to identify the optimal harvest time. Once harvested, note that some herbs, such as basil and mint, must be consumed immediately, while others, such as tomatoes and strawberries, can be stored in the refrigerator.
Having a personal edible garden in your home not only brings happiness and satisfaction, but also helps protect the environment. By growing delicious and colorful vegetables and fruits and using fresh and organic products, you will help keep yourself and your family healthy. I hope this article was useful for you. I would be happy to hear your comments and criticisms on this topic.
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