Congratulations on your new urban planter boxes! Starting your first gardening project is exciting, and the best way to ensure success is to begin with plants that are forgiving, fast-growing, and low-maintenance. Forget complicated setups or finicky seeds; your goal right now is to grow your confidence along with your plants.
The easiest things to start with are leafy greens and herbs. They are the workhorses of the beginner's garden.
1. Leafy Greens:
* Lettuce & Salad Mixes: You can hardly go wrong. Simply sprinkle the seeds over the soil, cover lightly, and keep moist. You'll see sprouts in days and can start harvesting baby greens in just a few weeks.
* Spinach & Kale: These are nutritional powerhouses and equally simple to grow from seed. They enjoy cooler weather, making them perfect for spring and fall planting.
2. Foolproof Herbs:
* Basil: A few plants will provide you with plenty of leaves for pesto and pasta. It grows quickly from seed or you can buy a small starter plant.
* Mint: Incredibly vigorous—it almost grows itself! It's better to get a small plant, as it can spread. Perfect for teas and cocktails.
* Chives: A perennial herb that will come back year after year. The grassy leaves are easy to snip and add a mild onion flavor to any dish.
3. Hardy & Quick Flowers:
* Marigolds & Nasturtiums: These are not just pretty; they help repel pests! They grow easily from seed and bloom all season, adding a vibrant splash of color to your space. Nasturtium flowers are also edible!
Your Simple Starter Plan:
1. Choose Your Container: Ensure your planter boxes have drainage holes at the bottom.
2. Use Good Soil: Fill them with a high-quality potting mix, not garden soil. This gives your plants the right foundation.
3. Follow Seed Packet Instructions: For depth and spacing. Don't plant seeds too deep!
4. Water Gently: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. A gentle spray is best for young seedlings.
5. Provide Sunlight: Most of these plants need about 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Start with these easy winners. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can go from a complete novice to harvesting your own fresh, homegrown food. Happy gardening