At Food2Soil, we believe in the power of resourceful gardening. Embracing the principles of reusing, repurposing, and recycling nature can greatly improve soil and plant health while keeping your gardening budget intact. Here are some cost-effective strategies to help you maintain a thriving garden and protect your wallet.
Create Gold from Waste
Compost Your Food Waste One of the best ways to enrich your garden soil is by composting food scraps. If you lack time or space for traditional composting, consider alternatives like worm farms, Bokashi bins, FOGO bins (if available), or the ShareWaste app. This app is especially handy for managing food waste even when you're on the go. Composting not only reduces landfill waste but also provides valuable nutrients for your garden.
Save on Soil and Compost
Bulk Purchasing and Microbial Inoculation When buying soil or compost, opt for bulk purchases from local landscape suppliers who often offer delivery services. New soil can be microbially deficient, so enhancing it with Food2Soil’s products can boost its health and effectiveness before planting.
Save on Plants
Collect and Save Seeds Harvest and save seeds from your garden plants to reduce costs. For trees and shrubs, lay an old sheet under seed-laden branches and gently tap to collect seeds. This technique is effective for plants like acacias and bursaria. For evergreen shrubs, take cuttings year-round and join local gardening groups like Canberra Organic Growers Society (COGS) for tips and seed sharing.
Start Plants from Seed Growing plants from seed can be cost-effective but requires careful attention to soil temperature and seed treatment. Research specific requirements for seeds, such as nicking or heat treatment for hard-coated varieties.
Divide and Conquer
Divide Overcrowded Plants Some plants benefit from being divided when they become overcrowded. Use a sharp spade to split the root ball of plants like Agapanthus, Peace Lilies, and rhubarb. This not only rejuvenates the plants but also provides free plants for your garden or as gifts.
Trash to Treasure
Use Fallen Leaves for Mulch Collect fallen leaves to use as mulch. Keep reusable garden bags in your car to collect leaves from road gutters, which may also contain valuable decomposed material and worms.
Find Recycled Building Materials For garden projects, consider visiting local recycling centers for materials like pavers, bricks, or pots. In the ACT, Tiny’s Green Shed is a great resource, and platforms like Gumtree and Facebook can also offer valuable finds.
Seek Out Organic Material Look for local farmers or urban growers who may have excess organic materials such as straw, hay, or manure. These materials can significantly benefit your garden.
Save on Quality and Concentration
Invest in Concentrated Products Using concentrated gardening products like Food2Soil can be more economical. A 2L bottle of Food2Soil provides 20 x 10L buckets of solution, lasting up to six months for the average home garden.
Choose Quality Tools Invest in high-quality gardening tools and equipment. Durable tools and hoses will save you money and frustration in the long run.
Plant for Climate and Season
Select Plants Suited to Your Climate
Planting species that are well-suited to your local climate and seasonal conditions is crucial for garden success. Avoid planting species that are not adapted to your area, as this can lead to unnecessary expenses and plant failure.
Gardening is a journey of continuous learning, filled with both challenges and successes. We invite you to share your resourceful gardening tips with the Food2Soil team as we continue to explore new ways to garden sustainably and effectively.