One of the most satisfying experiences is eating vegetables from your own garden. If you’re lucky enough to have a sunny porch or balcony in your rental, then you can grow food. Even if it’s small, think creatively about how to use vertical space. Hanging planters can also be a good option. To get started, you will need:
- Suitable containers/pots (must have drainage holes)
- Dirt or compost (did you know Portland residents can buy compost from the city? Check it out!)
- Something to water your plants with
- Seeds or seedlings
Some plants that do really well in containers are:
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Strawberries
- Herbs such as Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme
- Carrots
- Lettuce
- Green onions
The most important part in keeping vegetables happy in containers is to water them the correct amount. Try drilling small holes in a water bottle or other similarly shaped container and burying it in the pot with the plants for a steady water supply. It is also helpful to research what type of soil your plants thrive in. Coffee grounds add nitrogen, crushed egg shells add calcium. It is also possible to make a kind of “compost smoothie” out of food scraps to use in addition to regular watering.
Pinterest is a great resource if you have questions – check out our Small Space Gardening board.