From Small Spaces to Big Harvests: Tips That Can Help You Grow More With Less in Vertical Gardening
With the increasing population, land size that can be used for farming has reduced, while at the same time the demand for food has kept soaring. Feeding this growing population has been becoming challenging, creating the need for innovation. This involves making use of even the big spaces to grow food.
One way that farmers have devised is creating vertical gardens such as using multi-storey gardens and growing on walls.
Vertical farming is a unique and innovative approach of growing crops indoors, in walls and fences, outdoors in the farm. It’s a form of growing in controlled environments, where every parameter affecting their growth is closely monitored and tailored to their needs. Vertical gardening can be through various ways like;
Hydroponics
Aquaculture
Aeroponics
Multi-storey gardening
Unlike traditional gardening, which requires expansive plots, vertical farming involves growing plants vertically, either on walls, fences, or specially designed structures.
Dive in to discover what vertical gardening entails, what you can grow, and tips on how to implement it successfully.
But What are the Right Crops for Vertical Gardening
When embarking on your vertical gardening journey, it is essential to select crops that are well-suited for this unique method of cultivation.
In multi-storey gardens, you can grow crops such as;
Strawberries
Kales
Spinach
Peppers and capsicum
Cherry tomatoes
Lettuce.
Leafy greens are an excellent choice as they do not require extensive root systems.
Herbs like mint, thyme, and basil can also thrive well in vertical gardens and provide a delightful aroma to your space.
Ensure the plants receive adequate ample sunlight, especially if they are positioned on south-facing walls. Assess the amount of shade your farm receives and select plants accordingly.
Tips for Successful Vertical Gardening
You need to prepare well to succeed in vertical farming. We have compiled a few tips that will help you get started.
First, ensure there are proper support structures. Whether you opt for trellises, vertical planters, hanging baskets, or multi-storey bags, make sure they are sturdy and can support the weight of your crops.
Prune and train your plants regularly to promote healthy growth and maximize space use. Just because there’s little space does not mean you overcrowd the plants. Keep the recommended population.
Select the right soil. The soil mix should be well-drained and of high quality for proper root development and prevent waterlogged conditions. Incorporate organic matter to enhance soil fertility.
Vertical Gardening in Small Spaces
Whether you have a postage-stamp-sized yard, a tiny balcony, or just a sunny window, vertical gardening is something that can transform your space into a productive garden.
In small spaces, you need to maximize each inch, whether its walls, fences, or railings to create a lust green backdrop.
How do you do this?
You can do this by using window boxes or hanging baskets, which can be easily mounted and provide additional planting areas. On fences, for instance, you can landscape your fence using climbing plants like strawberry or grapes.
Vertical trellises can be placed against walls or be freestanding in corners, which enables you to maximize the growing area. For crops such as spinach, you can grow them on multi-storey gardens to grow more on less space.
Vertical Gardening for Urban Environments
Are you in an urban area where space is limited but want to grow some crops? Well, then here is the solution to maximize on what is available. With the increasing popularity of urban gardening, you can create vertical gardens on rooftops, open spaces in the compound, and balconies.
What’s more?
Imagine the feeling when you are harvesting your fence. Or when your compound is landscaped with dwarf varieties that are bringing some income. Or having a small garden that is producing even enough for the neighbors. Vertical gardening can enable you to grow fruits and vegetables, providing you with fresh food.
Create a vibrant vertical garden with Mazero
Do you have little space and still want to grow some crops, whether its fruits or vegetables? We have a solution for you. At Mazero, we help farmers create efficient vertical farms, better multi-storey gardens, and exceptional hydroponics systems.
So why wait? Start your vertical garden today and experience the satisfaction of harvesting your own homegrown crops.
Contact us today!