There are a lot of videos these days of people growing immaculate gardens on multi-acre homesteads with raised beds and fancy trellises. They are beautiful and inspiring, and sometimes a little discouraging. I’m not trying to be dismissive of all the prefab gardens, handy tools, and various related accoutrement; these things are great, and they can make gardening easier. I, myself, have built up a modest collection over the many years of gardening. But the point is, you don’t have to have them. I didn’t when I started. Instead, I had a rather mutilated butter knife that I lovingly referred to as “the multi-tool.” Was it perfect? Certainly not! But is was functional. You see, getting started with gardening really doesn’t take much. With just the basics and a can-do attitude: you, too, can garden!

There are two things you absolutely need to grow a plant. Full spectrum lighting (sunshine really is best) and water. While soil is my preferred method, you can grow without it (but that is a topic for another day.)  So let’s get down to the root of things! Here are some tips to to help as you set off down the garden path.

Containers

Take a look around your home. You probably have something laying around the house, or items that would otherwise be thrown away, that would make a great plant container! Empty bottles, jars, milk cartons. If it can hold water or soil, it will work. Thrift stores can be another good place to find containers for less. You may need to add holes for drainage, but just about any kind of container can work.

Sourcing Soil

One great way of sourcing soil is to make your own. Vermiculture composting can be done with just a medium-sized tote with a lid, some shredded newspaper, and a ‘can’ of worms. Simply add produce scraps, and your squirmy friends will do the rest! This can then be used to improve poor soil. You can find more information on how to get started in this great article from the Colorado State University Extension Blog –https://csuhort.blogspot.com/2017/04/vermicomposting-by-sherie-caffey.html

Grow from Seed

Sure, I’m definitely biased when it comes to seed, but there are several reasons why I generally think growing from seed is better.

First and foremost, it’s cheaper. One packet of seeds is largely comparable in price to a small plant, and with it you can many plants. It depends entirely on the variety of the seed, but one packet of seeds contains anywhere from a dozen to several hundred seeds. This can also facilitate consecutive planting of fast-growing crops for a perpetual harvest all season long.

Secondly, some plants have very sensitive young roots and are more prone to shock when transplanted. It is best to direct-sow these plants where you intend for them to grow out. You can still grow these plants in a container but choose a container that will be large enough for your plant as it grows.

Lastly, plants grown from seed have greater genetic diversity. Many of the cultivars and nativars sold at nurseries are clones, grown from a mother plant. They are genetically identical to the parent plant. These clones could be more susceptible to disease, which could of wipe out your entire crop if you have multiples of this same plant. This was a contributing factor to the potato famine. Additionally, greater genetic diversity creates healthier ecosystems-even the one the exists in your garden. This is also especially important for the continued viability and resilience of plants in an ever-changing world.

Seek Out Resources in Your Community

Community Gardens are on the rise across the country. Connecting these programs is a great way to get some hands-on learning with experienced gardeners and maybe even make some friends. Your local library or university extension office can also be a great place to cultivate your gardening knowledge.

So, what are you waiting for? There is no time like the present to dig right in!