WRITTEN BY KATIE SMITH
If you’re craving a traditional garden with rows of tomatoes, lettuce, and climbing beans, but don’t have the time or space, it can feel like too much to take on. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to grow fresh fruits and vegetables in smaller spaces.
The best part: Most of these methods save time and labor, and there’s no need to till up precious yard space. Whether you have a sunny deck, an unused corner of your yard, or a few empty containers in the garage, you don’t need much to grow your own food and reap the rewards.
Raised beds
Soil conditions in Maine can be acidic, slow to warm, and prone to poor drainage. Raised beds solve these problems by giving you full control over the soil.
There are many ways to build a raised bed. At its simplest, it’s just a bottomless box. You can stack bricks or rocks, or use cinder blocks. For a more finished look, fasten four boards together to create a frame.
To prevent weeds and grass from creeping in, line the bottom with landscaping fabric, newspaper, or cardboard before adding soil and compost.
Large outdoor containers, such as galvanized water troughs, are also a good option. Be sure to drill holes in the bottom for drainage. Adding legs to a raised bed can help reduce bending and kneeling, making gardening easier on your back and knees.
Deck or patio garden
A collection of herbs, lettuce, or flowers on your deck or patio is a simple alternative to digging up the ground. Containers can be moved to follow the sunlight throughout the summer, making it easier to care for your plants.
You can grow more than you might expect in small spaces. Peppers, cucumbers, and strawberries do well in containers, and tomatoes thrive in larger pots.
Lasagna garden
Sheet composting, also known as lasagna gardening, involves layering “green” and “brown” materials that break down over time to create nutrient-rich soil.
Start with a base layer of cardboard or newspaper and wet it thoroughly to kill weeds and grass. Add layers of leaves, wood chips, or peat moss, followed by fresh materials such as garden clippings or food scraps. Finish with a layer of compost.
This method creates rich soil while making use of materials that might otherwise end up in a landfill.
Vertical garden
Instead of planting in the ground, consider growing upward to maximize space. Trellises, hanging planters, and stacked containers allow you to grow more in a smaller footprint.
Climbing plants such as beans and peas thrive on trellises, while pocket planters work well for herbs and strawberries.
Community garden
If you’re short on space or time, or if maintaining a garden on your own feels overwhelming, consider joining a community garden.
In addition to providing space to grow, community gardens offer a chance to connect with others and share the responsibilities of maintaining a productive and rewarding garden.
No matter your space or schedule, growing your own food is more doable than you think. Start small, keep it simple and enjoy the process; your garden will grow from there!
