As the chill of winter fades away, you may find yourself thinking about warmer days and future garden plans. We’ve compiled a list of budget-friendly spring planting tips so you can get a head start on the growing season.
Test Your Soil
Knowing what kind of soil you have is an integral part of growing healthy plants. You can find test kits at your local hardware store or online to determine different pH levels and nutrients in your dirt. This will help you decide which plants will thrive, or if you’ll need to add nutrients to get your soil in top condition. Testing your soil early gives you ample time to make appropriate adjustments and will help you avoid planting seeds that may not do well in your location.
Build Your Own Containers
You may need containers for anything from starting seeds to housing full-grown plants. Pre-made containers can be expensive, so take stock of what you have and get creative with what you can repurpose into homemade containers. Items like old crates, pots, drawers, and baskets can all be transformed with a little elbow grease. Before you use your repurposed items, give them a thorough cleaning and make sure they each have a drainage hole. If they don’t, use a drill or other tools to create one so your new plants don’t end up with water-logged soil, which can cause root rot.
Find Used or Free Tools
Spring is a great time to hit up neighborhood yard sales to find treasures. While you’re out and about, look for any gently used garden tools that you can snag for a low price. Even if the item needs a small repair (like a shovel head needing reattaching,) if you’re handy, you may be able to acquire these items for free. Clean up and repair any used tools that can help you build out your garden.
Regrow What You Have
Did you know that some vegetables can be regrown from scraps? Items like celery, lettuce, and spring onions can all have their bulbs replanted. As you use these vegetables in the kitchen, save the bottoms and place them in soil in a small container. Cover the root lightly with soil and place in the sun. These types of vegetables can easily be started indoors as spring approaches and then moved outside once warmer weather arrives.
Research Native Plants
When determining what to plant this year, be sure to research native plants for your region. These plants often fare better in your climate and thrive off the nutrients already in your soil. This means they’re less likely to die off or require additional maintenance, which will ultimately save you time and money. Choose perennials when you can, and they’ll return each year – meaning you won’t need to repurchase additional plants or seeds each season.
Have A Healthy & Happy Garden
Prepping your garden for spring doesn’t need to be an expensive endeavor. With these tips, you’ll save money and be on track to a healthy, happy growing season. For more money-saving tips, visit our Resource Center.
