Your Indoor Garden: 5 Must-Have Gardening Supplies

Having the right gardening supplies on hand will make your work in the garden successful. There are many options available, and you could overspend on supplies you don’t really need. However, there are must-have gardening supplies that are essential to growing many types of plants. These are:

1. Containers

Your landlord is most likely not going to allow you to pluck up the lawn to grow your garden. Some apartments don’t have a backyard. The only way to grow your garden then would be in containers, making them the most important of all your gardening supplies. You can find containers for free, purchase them locally or online or make some yourself. Free containers can be found on websites like www.freecyle.org or www.craigslist.com. Post an ad asking for containers or browse the “free” items offered. If you plan on making your own wooden boxes and need plans, you can find instructions on websites like www.doityourself.com. Whether you buy or make your own containers, be sure that they have drainage for water to leak out. This helps to prevent your plants from getting too much water.

2. Plastic Trays and Bags

Before you put your seeds in giant containers, you’ll want to germinate the seeds first. Small plastic trays are a must-have to get your seeds growing. When you cover it with a plastic bag, it makes the germination go faster. Choose a clear one to cover the tray so that you can easily monitor the progress without removing the bag too early. Plan to germinate your seeds at least four weeks prior to transplanting them to the proper containers. Some plants require you to transplant them at least eight weeks prior.

3. Transplanting Trowel

Once you germinate your seeds, or if you buy plants from your local nursery or garden center, you’ll need a gardening trowel to transplant them into containers. This is far better than digging dirt with your hands or trying to use a traditional shovel. Try to find one that’s made of carbon steel and hardwood (for the handle). You want a quality trowel because it can be tough work digging through dirt to transplant or pull up plants. A flimsy trowel will only break and cause frustration.

4. Cages

This is a must-have if you plan to grow tomatoes. Cages will support the plant while it grows, and they can be used for cucumbers as well. Attach the cage to the containers so the plant grows inside of it. The plants’ stems will stand strong, giving you a strong and healthy plant. Some plants also require support in order to survive.

5. Watering Can

Plants need a steady flow of water, which can only be controlled with a watering can. You could use a water bottle, but that could be time consuming, going back and forth to the sink to refill the water bottle. Buying a watering can is a worthwhile addition to your gardening supplies, saving you time and effort in the long run.

Once you buy these 5 must-have gardening supplies, you’ll be well on your way to growing a successful garden. Compare prices online and check your local ads during the “off gardening season” for great deals.