Urban gardens are a great way to grow your own produce, add more colour to your home and do your bit for the environment. Just follow these simple steps…
Setting up your own garden has a host of benefits. It allows you to become more self-sufficient and spend less on grocery bills. Furthermore, it reduces food insecurity and greenhouse gas emissions.
Andrea Pucciarelli, Manager at Roots & Shoots Organic Farm, says it’s important to keep things simple when you first start out. “Many people think growing fruit or vegetables is more complicated than it is. Find a big pot and start by planting zucchini or squash seeds because they grow easily. It’s that simple. Don’t overthink it.”
Step 1: Designate an area
It’s possible to grow a garden even if you have limited space available. The key is to utilize your space well. If your have an outdoor area such as a balcony, patio or rooftop then clear the area and invest in space-saving containers such as grow bags, hanging baskets and planters to allow for more growing space.
If you don’t have an outdoor space, start a container garden in a suitable area in your home. Decorative pots from nurseries can be expensive so opt for buckets or up-cycled items such as crates and paint cans to pot plants.
Step 2: Determine what to grow
Understanding your garden’s conditions is key to success. Consider how much direct sunlight and square footage you have when you determine what kind of plants you will grow.
Vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber and cabbage are easily cultivated in Bahrain. Depending on the season, fruit such as watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, papaya, mango, lemon, oranges and dates are good options.
Step 3: Pot your plants
Prep your containers by adding drainage holes large enough for excess water to drain out. Use good-quality soil to plant the seeds. Follow the depth and spacing directions carefully.
Step 4: Take care of your garden
Familiarise yourself with the water needs of your plants. Gently spray your garden with water but take care not to overwater. Then give your produce enough space and time to grow. Ensure that you harvest fruit and vegetables when they are ripe and tender but only pick them when you plan to consume them. Lastly, enjoy the fruits of your labour!