You'll love these awesome garden ideas for small spaces

"We might think that we are nurturing our garden, but of course it's our garden that is really nurturing us." So said author and avid gardener Jenny Uglow. And she is right. Gardens have a way of nourishing us, body and soul. They give us a sense of peace and calm, and can even help to reduce stress. The benefits of keeping a garden are well-documented. But what if you don't have a lot of space to garden? That doesn't mean you can't enjoy all the positives that gardening brings.

Why plant a small garden

With so many people living in urban areas, garden space is at a premium. Yes, you may not be able to put down huge raised beds, but that doesn't mean you can't tend a garden and add some lush green foliage to our home environs. In fact, small gardens have many advantages over large ones. They are easier to care for and don't require as much time and effort. And because they are smaller, they can be more intimate and inviting, providing a lovely spot to relax and unwind.

What to grow in a small garden

The great thing about small gardens is that you can grow just about anything in them, from vegetables and fruits to flowers and herbs. Obviously, a small garden is not ideal for growing fruit trees. But it is the perfect space for growing a wide variety of other plants.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Establish a herb garden. Herbs are relatively easy to grow and don't require a lot of space. Plus, they add flavour to your cooking.
• Grow your own salad. Lettuces and other salad greens are perfect for small garden spaces.
• Plant some flowers. Flowers not only add colour and beauty to your garden, but they can also attract bees and other pollinators.
• Grow some fruit. While you may not be able to grow fruit trees in a small garden, you can grow other types of fruit, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
• Plant vegetables. A small garden is a perfect space for growing vegetables. Try planting tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and other favourites.

With a little imagination and some careful planning, you can turn your small garden into a space that is both beautiful and functional.

Tips on creating the perfect small garden

Here are some garden ideas for small spaces that will help you create your own little oasis, no matter how much (or how little) space you have.

1. Go vertical

If you don't have a lot of horizontal space to garden, go vertical! Plant climbing vines or flowers that will grow up instead of out. You can also use trellises, garden walls, or fences to create vertical garden spaces. Vertical gardens are certainly a popular urban design trend and for good reason. They are perfect for small spaces and can even be used indoors.

2. Use containers

Another great way to garden in small spaces is to use containers or potted plants. This is especially helpful if you only have a balcony within which to plant your garden. Choose containers that are the right size for your space and plants, and be sure to use a good quality potting soil. The advantages of using containers is that you can move them around to get the best light, and you can also take them with you if you move.

3. Window boxes

If you live in an apartment with only smaller outdoor spaces or none at all, don't despair. You can still enjoy the benefits of gardening by growing plants on your windowsill. If you want to pot some herbs and grow them indoors, windowsill gardens are ideal, provided the location gets enough sunlight and you remember to water them!

Looking after a small garden

It's critical to pick a spot for your tiny garden that provides enough sunshine, water, and rich, nourishing soil.

Sunlight: Veggies need at least six hours of sunlight daily to grow properly. If the garden doesn't get enough light, your plants will become leggy and produce fewer fruits and vegetables.

Water: When it comes to watering, less is more. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases and root rot. Stick your finger in the soil to see if it's dry before you water. A drip irrigation system is simple to set up and uses less water by watering the plant's roots directly (saving more water in its journey from the bottom of the root ball to the top). Plus, with the addition of a drip irrigation controller, you can easily automate your watering schedule and save time and money in the long run.

Soil: The best soil for gardening is loose, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding some organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage. If you notice that your plants are wilting or not growing as they should, a soil test can tell you if the problem is due to poor drainage, a lack of nutrients, or something else.

Fertilize: Fertiliser provides the essential nutrients that plants need to grow strong and healthy. If you're growing vegetables, fruits, or flowers, fertilise every two to four weeks using a water-soluble fertiliser. For best results, follow the directions on the fertiliser package.

Pest: The best way to prevent garden pests is to start with healthy plants that are well-nourished and not stressed. If you do find pests in your garden, there are a number of ways to get rid of them, including using beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, and garden-safe insecticidal soap.

Weeding: Hand-pulling weeds is the best way to get rid of them, but sometimes they can be difficult to remove. In that case, you can use a garden hoe. Be sure to remove the entire root so the weed doesn't come back.

By taking these factors into account, you can create a thriving garden in even the smallest of spaces.

Final thoughts

A garden is a great way to enjoy outdoor living or bring a little bit of the outdoors inside if you don't happen to have a lot of space. By using the tips and techniques in this article, you can garden in small spaces and enjoy all the benefits that come with it. So get creative and have fun!