In an enlightening video by Culinary Garden, viewers are introduced to a series of innovative and cost-effective gardening hacks. These tips are not only easy to implement but also promise to enhance the gardening experience by making it more efficient and productive. Here’s a concise summary of the ten free garden hacks that genuinely work, as shared in the video.
10 Free Gardening Hacks
1. Utilizing Dead Tree or Bush Prunings for Climbing Plants
Dead Trees
A simple yet effective method for aiding climbing plants like peas or beans is using dead tree or bush prunings. Stripped of leaves, these prunings serve as excellent structures for plants to reach the first rungs of their trellis, offering a natural and cost-free solution.
2. Sheet Rocks for Warmer Soil
Sheet Rocks
For plants requiring warmer soil temperatures, placing sheet rocks at their base can significantly help. These rocks absorb sunlight throughout the day, retaining warmth around the soil, which is particularly beneficial during colder climates or fringe seasons.
3. Seed Starting with Recycled Covers
Plastic Containers to Protect Seedlings
To achieve consistent germination when starting seeds, covering the seed tray with a plastic bag, takeaway lid, or cardboard can lock in moisture and create a greenhouse effect. This method requires daily checks and removal once seedlings emerge to ensure they receive sunlight.
4. Plank of Wood as Slug and Snail Trap
Use Wood Planks to collect snails
A straightforward way to control slug and snail populations is by placing a spare plank of wood diagonally against a garden bed. This acts as a trap, as these pests tend to seek out the plank for shelter, allowing gardeners to easily remove them.
5. Bottle with Holes for Watering Seedlings
Make Holes into Plastic Bottles
An economical and efficient seedling watering device can be made by drilling holes in the lid of any bottle. This hack offers a gentle watering option for young plants and can be adapted to larger bottles for greater capacity.
6. Fertilizing Before Rain
Fertilize before rain
Leveraging upcoming rainstorms for fertilizing can save time and effort. By applying a concentrated mix of liquid fertilizer shortly before rain, plants receive a thorough watering along with the nutrients, enhancing absorption and growth.
7. Recycled Plastics as Seedling Protectors
Recycle Plastic Bags
To protect newly transplanted seedlings from pests, using recycled plastic containers or bottles as covers can be highly effective. This method is particularly useful at night when pests are more active, though it’s important to remove the covers during hot days to avoid overheating.
8. Toilet Roll Holders for Seedling Trays
Toilet Roll Holders for Seedling Trays
Old toilet roll holders can serve as biodegradable seedling trays. Filling these with soil and placing them in a recycled container keeps the cardboard moist and encourages root growth. This approach also facilitates easy transplanting without disturbing the plant’s roots.
9. Thorny Plant Barriers for Slug and Snail Protection
Thorny plant stalks
Creating a perimeter around seedlings with thorny plant stalks, such as those from blackberries or roses, can deter slugs and snails without using chemicals or physical traps.
10. Upcycling for Plant Labels
Plant Labels
Instead of purchasing plastic plant labels, upcycling wooden sticks or cutting out strips from white plastic containers offers a sustainable and cost-free alternative. These can be easily marked with a permanent marker and placed in seed trays.
Culinary Garden’s video not only offers practical advice for gardeners looking to save money but also encourages a sustainable approach to gardening. By repurposing everyday items and utilizing natural solutions, these hacks underline the importance of resourcefulness and creativity in gardening.
Credits
This content is based on a video by Culinary Garden.
Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.