Are you thinking about starting a garden but don’t know where to begin? Starting a garden is easier than you might think. You can grow plants anywhere. But it might be harder to plan where is best for you.
One of the first things to consider is where to put your garden.
When you are pondering your garden’s location, here are some things to think about first:
4 things to think about when choosing a garden’s location
- Residence
- Sun
- Water
- Plants to grow
1. Think about Your Living Situation
When considering where to put your garden, consider where you live and whether you can have one there.
- What kind of housing do you live in? In an apartment? House? Other?
- Are you renting? Will your landlord give you the freedom to create a garden? If not, maybe indoor containers are better.
If you can’t grow anything where you live, maybe you should consider creating a community garden. There will be a post on this later.
2. Where in your desired area can you get the most sunlight?
Most plants need 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. If you don’t have windows, try a grow light. Yes, they are a bit more expensive. However, trust me, they are worth it during the winter or even in a space without sunlight.
Certain plants thrive in particular conditions, such as how much sunlight they require to grow and where to put your plants to thrive.
Directions of sunlight for your garden:
- The north-facing garden gets 3-4 hours of direct sunlight, usually in the afternoon or evening—plants like snowdrops, carrots, and broccoli.
- A south-facing garden gets full sun exposure (6-8 hours of sunlight) throughout the day, not only at certain times. Be vigilant with the plants you put in there–that they can handle the heat and ensure they are watered well. Plants are easy to grow in this directional garden. Examples of plants are lavender and tomatoes.
- West-facing garden: This location gets shade in the morning and full heat in the afternoon and evening. Roses, daffodils, and tulips are examples of plants that thrive here.
- East-facing garden: the sun rises in the east. Get plants that love that morning sun. Examples of plants are hydrangeas and ferns.
3. Where is your water source?
When considering where to put your garden, water needs to be easily accessible. You can do this using a watering can, a hose, or a spigot in your house.
You don’t want to walk long distances to water your plants. Make sure they are easily accessible for you.
4. What plants would grow best in that space?
Where are you thinking of planting? Inside or outside? Is it mainly in the shade? Is it primarily a sunny space?
Choose the right plants for you–in your desired space.
If you aren’t sure what is right for you, contemplate your needs.
Are you looking to:
- Improve air quality in your living space?
- Save money on food from the grocery store by growing your vegetables and herbs.
- Beautify your yard?
Another thing to take into consideration is your pets. Some plants are toxic to your pets. Here are two links from the ASPCA for you to look into:
- The whole list of non-toxic and toxic plants for cats through ASPCA is here.
- For dogs, the list is here.
- Once you get to the lists, click on the plant’s name to see what it looks like if you are unsure.
Finally, Choose companion plants. This means plants that grow well together. An example is the “three sisters’ (corn, beans, and small squash). When grown together, they repel weeds and pests, enhance the soil, and support each other’s growth.
Last thoughts:
Now, you have the tools to determine what is best for you to plant in your desired space. Take some time and think about where your garden would be best for you.
If you have any questions about this, please comment below. I’d be happy to help you as much as I can.
Happy Gardening, lovelies!
