Budget Gardening

It’s so easy to waste money when gardening. With a little forethought and creativity it is possible to garden cost effectively.

Planning
How many of us have purchased a fairly expensive plant at the garden centre only to watch it wither and die after we plant it? A small amount of time researching the right soil type, location and plant care would save this heartache. Research through reading magazines, watching TV programmes and scouring the internet is invaluable and can be a lot of fun.

A little planning before visiting garden centres and nurseries will save immense amounts of money. Survey your site, the amount of space you’ve got available and what plants will work best. Try and avoid impulse purchases – rather like ‘don’t go shopping when you’re hungry’!

Good tools are essential. Don’t skimp on quality or you will be buying replacements on a regular basis. Buy the best you can afford. A handy tip is to ask for tools as Christmas and birthday presents.

Plants
The following are only a handful of tips, which we hope will give you food for thought.

Grow plants from seed whenever possible. Use old supermarket plastic containers to germinate the seeds. If you don’t have enough space for the results of a whole packet swop seeds with friends and family.

Use old plastic fizzy drink bottles to propagate and protect seedlings.

Collect seeds from the garden. Make sure they are stored in a cool, dry place.

Cuttings are a fabulous way to both experiment and save money. As well as taking cuttings from people you know don’t be afraid to ask fellow gardeners for them. If you see something you admire in someone’s garden strike up a conversation. This could lead to a new gardening friendship and is a great way to swop plants.

Buying plants from a market is much cheaper than from a garden centre.

Flower and trade shows are an excellent way to pick up bargains. Gardeners who’ve exhibited their wares usually don’t want the hassle of taking all the plants back home, so often sell them at much reduced prices.

Divide clumps of bulbs and perennials to make them go further.

Containers and Decoration
Wheelbarrows, old sinks, catering containers, barbecues, fire grates …. the list of unusual and free containers is endless. Search scrap yards and car boot sales for pots with a difference. You’ll also be doing your bit for the environment by recycling. Don’t forget drainage holes for your finds.

Pebbles, rocks and logs can be used to edge or make a feature.

More Cost Saving Tips

Save rain water – buy a water butt. Save the plastic ties used to secure children’s toys in their boxes for plant supports. Make a compost heap. Use leaf mulch. Control plant destroying pests. Bring plants inside at the first sign of cold weather.

Just think – with all the money you’ve saved you could buy a couple of fantastic stoneware pots to use as a focal feature…..