How to Budget Out Your Backyard Garden and Save Money
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Gardening is expensive–said no one ever. Yes, the costs of building and maintaining a bountiful, lush green backyard garden can add up quickly. But, with some planning and smart choices, you can have the backyard garden you want without the financial nightmares.
This guide, crafted for gardening enthusiasts like you, discusses several tips to create a budget-friendly garden to make you and your wallet happy.
Planning Your Backyard Garden on a Budget: 5 Tips
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Start With a Plan
A well-thought-out plan is the backbone of a budget-friendly garden. Think about what you want—flowers, vegetables, or a mix. Then, sketch out a rough layout of your garden, including where each type of plant will go. This initial step can save you from making impulsive buys later on. Make sure to also set a budget for your gardening project to keep your spending in check.
Money-Saving Tip: Opt for plants that are in season. They’re usually more affordable and grow better in their natural conditions.
Know Your Soil
Understand your soil type before spending on fertilizers and plants. Get a soil test kit from your local garden store. It’s a small investment that can save you from buying the wrong type of plants or unnecessary soil additives.
Money-Saving Tip: Use a soil calculator to know how much you will need to fill the ground. This will help you spend wisely, avoiding excess expenses.
Choose Plants Wisely
Picking the right plants is crucial. Native plants are generally your best bet because they acclimate to the local climate and require less upkeep. They’re also more resistant to local pests and diseases. If you’re looking for something low-maintenance, consider herbs or perennial flowers that require little care once established.
Money-Saving Tip: Seeds and young plants are usually cheaper than fully-grown plants. They may require more care initially, but the cost savings are significant.
Shop Smart
Don’t rush into buying your garden supplies. Take your time to shop around and compare prices. This includes checking out local nurseries, big-box stores, and online retailers. While you’re at it, look for sales and discounts. Every penny saved is a penny earned, right?
Money-Saving Tip: Local farmers’ markets and community plant sales often offer healthy plants at lower prices. Keep an eye out for these events in your community.
DIY All The Way
You’d be surprised by how much you can save with a little do-it-yourself spirit. From making compost to repurposing household items as planters, the possibilities are endless. Got an old boot lying around? Turn it into a quirky flowerpot! Need a watering can? A milk jug with holes in the cap will do just fine.
Money-Saving Tip: Instead of buying expensive fertilizers and soil enhancers, make your compost using kitchen scraps like coffee grounds and vegetable peelings.
Maintenance and Upkeep
A garden is a living, breathing entity that needs regular care. But upkeep doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple practices like timely pruning, proper watering, and regular weeding can go a long way. Set a schedule for these tasks to keep your garden healthy and reduce the need for expensive interventions later.
Money-Saving Tip: Mulching is an excellent way to conserve soil moisture and reduce weed growth. Use organic materials like straw or leaves for a cost-effective solution.
