Spring is here, and the time to sow seeds is now. Living in a smaller space like an apartment can sometimes take time to grow plants, depending on which direction the apartment faces the sun. There is bound to be a sunny corner where you can test your green thumb, so here are some tricks and tips on micro gardening in small spaces.
Before deciding what you will want to plant and grow in your apartment, be sure you meet the basic requirements for gardening:
- Sunlight: most fruiting and flowering plants require a full day of sunshine. This is hard to come by in an apartment, especially in a city where tall buildings block the sun for part of the day. If all else fails, purchase an indoor grow light to mimic the sun’s rays.
- Soil: Since growing in an apartment, plants will be inside containers and pots, be sure to get a well-draining potting mix. Potting mix is light and fluffy, efficiently circulating oxygen and water to keep roots healthy.
- Water: Be mindful of not overwatering indoor plants. Once a plant has been overwater, it will have root rot and eventually die. Outside plants will require water more often, so increase watering in the summer months. If you’re like me, make reoccurring iCal reminders until you get used to the habit.
- Humidity: For those who live in drier temperatures, indoor plants might require extra humidity. Spritzing the plants with a fine mist can help.
- Wind: If living in a sky scrapper and having many high winds on the rooftop or balcony, consider top-heavy pots.
- Weight: Plants in pots filled with soil will be heavy and even more so once they are watered. Window boxes will need to be secured to the windowsill. If gardening on the balcony or rooftop, check with the property manager about weight restrictions. Rest peacefully, though, because ResidentShield renter’s insurance will protect you if something happens.
After meeting the above requirements, choose what plants you wish to grow. Micro gardens are popular for city dwellers to grow and eat organic fresh greens and herbs. Micro gardens have a short harvesting period of a few weeks. So, cultivating these at home is not time-consuming and does not require a lot of gardening equipment or experience. This is why micro gardens are ideal for residents in the city.
Baby leaf vegetables are called micro greens and are known for their unique aromatic flavor and high level of nutrients. These can quickly grow on a balcony or rooftop. Some popular microgreens are mustard, coriander, beetroot, wheatgrass, basil, and sunflower. Be sure to have good-quality seeds, containers, and proper lighting.
Guard against disasters. Spring is also a bright time to review and renew contracts, such as your renter’s insurance. Take all the little steps to ensure you have everything you need to relax next to your freshly planted micro garden and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, organic lifestyle.
