Starting an urban garden with planter boxes doesn't have to break the bank. The most cost-effective approach begins with selecting the right materials. Instead of expensive specialty containers, consider upcycling food-grade buckets, wooden crates, or even dresser drawers from thrift stores. Ensure proper drainage by drilling holes in the bottom.
For soil, create your own mix using one part compost, one part coconut coir or peat moss, and one part perlite or vermiculite. This homemade blend costs significantly less than pre-mixed potting soils while providing excellent drainage and nutrients.
When choosing plants, start with easy-to-grow herbs like basil, mint, and parsley, or vegetables like lettuce, radishes, and cherry tomatoes that thrive in containers. Begin with seeds rather than seedlings for maximum cost savings - a packet of seeds costs about the same as one starter plant but yields multiple plants.
Place your planter boxes in locations that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong root growth. Implement companion planting by growing compatible plants together to maximize your limited space and improve plant health naturally.
Regular maintenance including pruning, feeding with homemade compost tea, and monitoring for pests early will ensure your budget-friendly urban garden thrives throughout the season.