Bringing nature on the indoors
Time has changed, I remember the days when gardens including vegetable gardens were installed outdoors but in this day and time gardeners are taking on a new approach and that is gardening indoors. This is a pretty cool way to garden and it has so many advantages, to some people, this may seem a bit odd growing food crops indoors and then for many who have thought of having a garden but gave up because of not having the yard space like living in an apartment, indoor gardens are here to help you to have the garden that you always wanted.
But one thing to remember is, there are rules to follow with these type of gardens if you want to get good results or reap the fruits of your labor. Can you imagine growing your food crops indoors, this is such a great experience and something to be proud of. So if the thought has ever crossed your mind of installing an indoor garden but gave up because you did not know where to start then you have come to the right place as we look at tips which can help us to have success with these gardens
The advantage of having an indoor garden
Here are some advantages of having an indoor garden.
1. The winter months don’t have to stop you because with these garden types the season can be extended by growing foods year-round.
2. You are in full control by growing foods without the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides.
3. Saving your hard-earned dollar. Grow foods and save on that shopping list.
4. Having these types of gardens in an enclosed environment means that garden insect pests invasion is limited. You have better control over them.
5. Attract and keep beneficial insects on the inside. The bad bugs or garden insect pests do not stand a chance and will be consumed by the beneficial insects. This method is known as biological control which is a safe way, especially when growing food crops.
6. Having these gardens can be enjoyed by both you and your family.
7. This type of garden is great because you can teach your kids about the importance of plants including food safety. Pasting this type of information on to the next generation is so great.
8. An indoor garden is in an enclosed environment which means no need to worry about air pollution coming in contact with your food crops.
9. With an indoor garden, there is no weeding that needs to be done which is great
10. Having an indoor can keep you safe from ultraviolet or the sun’s rays that cause skin cancer.
How to start an indoor vegetable garden
A complete guide to growing vegetables indoors.
So you have decided to grow vegetables indoors but need some help on where to start. What I want to point here first is that you don’t need a green thumb as some would say but having the knowledge to move forward having much success, here are the rules.
1. Decide where you want your garden, it can be on the kitchen counter, or maybe placing a 5-7gallon container in the corner of your kitchen, what about that empty space that is your garage? your balcony is a great place, do you have a patio or a porch, how about installing a few large containers in these areas? Remember as long as you have some extra space then utilize this for your indoor garden.
2. Lighting- all plant life needs light no matter in what amount, whether full light sunlight, indirect light, or partial light all plants need light so if you have space ensure there is acquitted lighting or installing grow lights work just well.
3. Ventilation is a must for proper air circulation, ensure that there is some type of air circulation to help your indoor garden along the way.
4. What will you be planting? Having this knowledge will make life easier. Having this information will help you to determine the space that is needed, light requirements, soil type, the amount of water, etc…
5. The soil type, I wouldn’t overthink this one because using a good organic soil mix is the perfect fit for just about any garden.
6. The size of the container will influence what food crop to grow, for example, if the only available space that you have is on the kitchen counter and the counter can only hold several containers size of 6 inches-1 gallon then I would grow herbs from these containers. Trying to grow potatoes or let’s say cabbages will not do because the containers are too small. So, in short, know the available space, along with what you want to grow and the container size, this is important. Also, the containers should have drain holes to allow water to escape. Placing saucers under the containers will catch the water that drains which you can dispose of.
7. All plants need water no matter the amount, another important key to consider. Know your plants watering needs, if your garden plants require the soil to be somewhat moist at all times then by all means do so but if you don’t have that knowledge and allow the soil to dry out completely to the point where the plants begin to wilt then you will be faced with issues that must be corrected.
8. Fertilizers play an important role in a plant’s life. Feeding your plants with an organic or slow-release pallet fertilizer will do though some would prefer a quick release. Before applying fertilizers read and follow the manufacturer’s label because the label is the law.
9. Room temperature is so important because the temperature can also affect the growth of your indoor garden plants. The room temperature should be in the high 60s.
10. Yes even indoors you may have a few uninvited guests ( garden insect pests), they just can’t leave our plants alone. The good part, however, is because you are growing indoor plants the pest level is small. These pests can be controlled with the use of insecticidal soap or by mixing your own homemade remedy which is safe.
11. When buying seeds or seedlings ensure that they are of high quality, the last thing you want is to purchase seeds or seedlings which are of poor quality which can lead to many issues including death.
Additional Information
1. When sowing seeds, don’t plant too deeply because the seeds will not germinate. The seeds should be sowed about one inch to an inch and a half in the soil. Ensure that after the seed is sowed they are covered completely with the soil.
2. When adding soil to the container do not fill the container to the top, a few inches free of soil should be left so that as you water your plants the water would not push the soil out of the container causing there not only to be soil loss but also the loss of the seeds.
3. The water should be applied where it comes out from a showerhead, gentle and slow. This will ensure that the soil and the seeds do not wash away and that your seed gets the right amount of water. Coarse droppings will cause seed and soil loss.
4. If planting seedlings then be very careful because seedlings are delicate. The root ball of the young seedlings should be in the soil while from the top or just where the plant itself is joined to the root ball should be above ground. Installing seedlings too deeply can lead to a plant suffering from vitamin deficiency and suffocating.
5. If purchasing seeds read the package for direction. If growing from seedlings find out as much information about that plant as we have discussed because knowledge of those seedlings will go along way in helping you to reap a good harvest.
The final word
Having an indoor garden is not new but have been around for some time as many people are just getting into growing indoor vegetable. These gardens are truly amazing and beneficial so why let that empty space sit there when you can use it to your advantage. Hopefully, you stuck around to the end of this post because you are one of those that have spotted the opportunity with this type of garden. Just take it a step further and begin working on your indoor vegetable garden, I know you will be glad that you did as you reap the fruits of your labor while saving a few $$$$$$$$$. With that said let’s get started, I am so excited what about you?
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About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.
I did grow veggies in containers last summer, but outside. I haven’t tried the indoor garden, but that’s a great idea, actually. I was so sad once my plants were gone. I especially liked the spinach and kale. I would pick leaves, and the plant would just regenerate them. I had fresh greens all summer, but I honestly wasn’t sure about trying to grow them inside once summer was over. I think I’m going to give that a try this fall and see if I can enjoy them all winter too.
With indoor gardens, we can extend the season and eat fresh all year long. It gives such a good feeling to be able to eat what you have grown with your very own hands. I would be happy if you would keep me informed about how it goes. So happy to help.
Hi
Thank you very much for this article on growing vegetables indoors. I am a very keen gardener and grow a lot of fruit and vegetables. Indoor would be good for people with no outdoor space, but to feed your family you need a lot of growing space.
A lot can be grown in containers and a lot cannot, as it will take too much effort to produce so little crop.
I can see a number of issues from watering and lighting. As seedling will grow spindly if they do not get enough light. Fungus gnats could be a problem, as well as positioning all the containers.
I really enjoyed the article. I don’t have enough room to grow veg inside apart from some herbs in pots.
Antonio
It is so good to know that you are growing your foods it gives such a great feeling. Thanks so much for sharing, all the best to you and keep up the good work.
This is a great alternative for those looking for fresh food in the winter. While it’s possible some will store their own food, for others who don’t and aren’t fans of corporate-bought food (who is?), it will be right up their alley. I’m familiar with growing food in the summertime and to be honest, there really doesn’t appear to be much difference with an indoor garden; you’re simply bringing the plants inside where they’re in an atmosphere to survive.