In this issue, I aim to smash the myths of high price and high anxiety gardening; and instead bring forth the liberating truth of frugal grow-how.
1. Myth: That pricey super nitro grow-anything-in-the-world potting soil that they say you need. Why this is silly… You may not realize this, but most things will grow anywhere. I find it both annoying and amusing that people actually make money and spend hours making the most simple of things, much more complex than need be. For instance, some people would like you to believe that you need to use certain fertilizers, potting soil, compost and insecticides. If that’s not enough, you can fall victim to an aneurysm just trying to figure out the best light, soil depth and amounts of water to use. Truth: Unless you are truly a doctor of botany and/or enjoy putting together the greatest of conspiracy theories, I would suggest that you relax and save some money. Depending on what you’re growing, you can generally get by with the basics. I buy the cheapest potting soil possible, and add to it. I keep a large storage container and add coffee grounds (a frugal secret to great soil) a bit of earth from the yard, and just add what is needed. If it’s clay like, add some sand. If it’s sandy, add some peat. Check and see if your local recycling center or county clerk’s office would know where you could obtain compost very cheaply or for free, if you do not have your own compost. To start your own, are you ready? Throw your scraps in a pile. Rake up leaves, grass clippings, kitchen scraps (not meat, fat or dairy) and run a rake through occasionally. If you don’t have it before, next year, you’ll have great compost for free. Ooh… that was rough-what brain surgery! (You can also add saw dust, ashes, and any other natural remnant to the mix.)
2. Myth: You need the beauty and color of annuals. Truth: Yes they’re pretty, but unless you buy during a great sale, clearance season, or start them yourself from seed, why? One secret I will accredit to annuals is that some, such as impatiens can be grown past the normal seasonal expectancy. If you live in the Midwest like I do, you can bring these sweeties in the house and they will keep growing, as long as you keep them trimmed, watered, and happy. Another secret is that some “annuals” are instead bi-annuals or sometimes rather a perennial. For instance, mums are a perennial. You may find them in the annual section, and some may not boast their potential, but honestly, they are. Why buy the same flowers over and over when you can keep them growing and improving year after year? Another option is to buy perennials,(see myth #3 below for more details). Whichever you choose, please check with a book, or the Internet for information on the plants before you plant them. (Disregarding of course, all the special instructions that will only hurt your head).
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