This is part 3 of our 7-part guide called âUnleash Your Inner Gardener: A Guide to Happy and Healthy plants!â. Ready to create your own plant paradise? Hereâs a list of the basic necessities along with a bonus list of some tools that could make your gardening journey a little easier. Donât worry, itâs not a long list. Now that you have already learned about all the considerations for choosing a plant, it will be less hectic. In case you missed it, last week, we covered all the things you need to consider to choose the right plant buddy, including climate, time and space.
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Gardening Essentials: The Starter Kit
This section focuses on your essential gardening toolkit - a few must-have items that will lay the foundation for happy, healthy plants. Whether you are growing herbs, flowers, or vegetables, these gardening essentials will help you begin your planting journey.Â
Plant- Choosing a plant is important because it gives you a perspective on what you will pick next like which type of pot, soil, where it should live, etc. Our last blog covers all the considerations in depth. Check it out here!Â
Pots- Pots come in various sizes, shapes and materials. Size, drainage hole, material and design are some of the things to consider. You can also be creative and create your own pot at home by upcycling things like plastic bottles, coffee can, empty small drums etc. Donât forget to create drainage holes in the DIY options so that your plants donât get moldy. If you are looking for DIY ideas, check out our Instagram reel showcasing the beauty and creativity of upcycled pots.
Soil- Soil provides plants with nourishment and nutrients. Therefore picking good soil is important. Fertilized soil will make the plants healthier and stronger. If you are a first time gardener, it is suggested to buy fertilized soils from the market, rather than picking soil from any random place.
Watering Can- Water is essential. Whether you use a watering can, watering hose, a normal bucket, or even a mug will work. Though, if you buy a pressure water pipe it is recommended to set the speed to low because pressurized water could damage small plant sprouts or compact the plant soil which might also damage the roots of the plant.
Fertilizer- Fertilizers are usually needed for an average sized to bigger sized plants. Small plants donât need fertilizers. Fertilized soil is easily available in the market, or you can create your own fertilizer through composting also. Homemade compost is the best option among different types of fertilizers. It gives all the benefits that a regular fertilizer will give and the best part is it doesnât contain any chemicals and upcycles your left over kitchen scraps.
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Tools to Level Up Your Plant Game
You can definitely get by with the basics, but in case you are ready to level up your plant game, you can explore some of these tools which might make it easier to care for your plants and even grow larger or more plants as your confidence grows.
Gardening Fork- As you can tell from the name, itâs basically a bigger version of a fork. It helps loosen compacted soil for aeration and helps with drainage. Just be careful not to use it too close to your growing plant as you might disturb the roots. Itâs best for preparing the soil for planting.
Gardening Gloves- These gloves are usually made from leather or rubber which are both waterproof materials, great for dealing with dirt and wet soil. Also it helps to get a good grip on the tools and keep your hands safe from pests.
Pruner- These are basically stronger scissors that are great for chopping off extra branches which can encourage more growth or any rotten parts of the plant to prevent spread of disease. For some plants it helps to shape them (think hedges, bonsai, etc). There is a technique to it which weâll cover in a later part of our series.
Hand Trowel- This is a small shovel that you can use for prepping the soil for planting new saplings, shifting pots, etc.Â
Plant Parent Power-Ups
Youâve mastered the essential supplies and now your plant babies are thriving! But every plant parent wants to see their green haven flourish. Thatâs where these âPlant Parent Power-Upsâ come in. These arenât mandatory, but they can take your skills to the next level and ensure your plants reach their full potential.Â
Gardening Manuals- These cover all the points from A-Z. Though the internet is good for any queries or doubts, there are definitely times you might not have good wifi or just want to disconnect.
Plant/Garden Covers- As you know, a garden is an invitation for pests and other insects. So to prevent pests from getting in your garden, there are physical barriers like sheds and covers etc. These covers also can create a warm moist environment for plants that need that. Though you want to prevent pests, some insects are good for your garden!
Self-Watering Spikes: These are great for if you are traveling and donât want your plants to dry out while youâre away.
Moisture Meter: This handy tool helps avoid overwatering or underwatering.
Gardening Apps: These can help with plant identification, care guides, and watering reminders.
With this comprehensive guide, youâre now equipped to create your very own green haven. Remember, gardening is a journey, not a destination. There will be triumphs and occasional hiccups, but thatâs all part of the learning process. Donât forget to check out this video showing different items that can be upcycled into pots in case you need some crafty ideas to get started. Stay tuned and follow us on Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/saathipads/) for the next installment! In part 4 of our gardening guide, âPlanting Party: Letâs Get Growingâ we will walk through all the steps to plant your first herb!Â
About the Series: Unleash Your Inner Gardener: A 7-Week Guide to Happy Plants & Sustainable Living
This fun and informative series makes gardening easy for beginners! Learn everything you need to know, from choosing plants to composting basics, in just 7 weeks. Each week covers a new topic to help you cultivate a thriving green space and embrace a sustainable lifestyle.
Ready to grow happiness and healthy plants? Join us for the next 4 weeks.
