Back porch garden

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Back porch gardening is a unique and easy way to turn a small outdoor space into a lush vegetable garden. Whether you’ve got a large patio or a small porch, this approach lets you enjoy fresh, homegrown produce without the hassle of traditional gardening. 

Easier Tips for Container Gardening that will have you growing the food you love in no time.

Homesteading and gardening have come a long way over the years, making it easier than ever to grow your own food, even in the smallest of spaces.

Back porch gardening is a great example of this and is becoming more popular in many homes.

Not only is it easy to set up and take care of it’s also a low-cost way to grow the food you love right outside your back door.

As I get older, I find it hard to do the things I once loved, like caring for a traditional garden. I’ve had to rethink how I grow our food, finding ways to adjust to make things easier, and luckily, I am not alone.

Over the years, so many things have changed when it comes to gardening. We can now produce more than we ever thought possible in smaller spaces.

Back porch gardening is the perfect example of this – it’s an easy and affordable way to grow your own food right outside your back door.

With back porch gardening, you don’t need a large piece of land or a daily list of back-breaking chores to fill your pantry with canned tomatoes.

All you need is a sunny area, a few containers, soil, and seeds, and you have what you need to get started.

What is Back Porch Gardening?

Back porch gardening, also known as container gardening, is a method of growing plants in containers instead of planting them directly into the ground.

By using containers you cut down on the amount of work making it a great solution for anyone that is short on time or suffers from physical issues.

Containers also allow you to make the most of your space. You can place them on your porch, patio, balcony, or even a windowsill.

This means you can grow your own food, no matter where you live – in an apartment, a condo, or a house with a small backyard.

Grow veggies without a yard. Check out these Container Vegetable Garden Ideas to grow fresh produce on your balcony, patio, or porch.

Best Containers for Growing Food

When choosing containers, you can use what you have or look to buy a container that will fit the space you have.

1. Ceramic pots – Great for growing herbs or lettuce. They come in various sizes and designs, making them a beautiful addition to your back porch.
2. Hanging baskets – Perfect for growing strawberries, cherry tomatoes, or peppers. You can hang them from the ceiling, allowing the plants to grow down, making the most of your space.
3. Grow bags – A cheaper and more portable option. They are made of fabric, allowing for proper drainage and air circulation.
4. Plastic buckets – Ideal for larger plants like zucchini, cucumbers, or squash. Make sure they have drainage holes at the bottom.
5. Window or railing boxes – Perfect for smaller plants like herbs or flowers. They can be easily mounted on a windowsill or railing, saving space.
6. Garden table – A table garden allows you to grow a mini garden in one space. It is a great way to grow a patch of herbs, a salad garden, or even large plants such as tomatoes or peppers.

Seeds or Seedlings?

One of the great things about back porch gardening is that you have the choice between starting plants from seeds or buying seedlings from a local nursery.

Both have their benefits – planting seeds allows for a wider variety of plant options and is typically more affordable, while seedlings offer a head start and can be easier for beginners.

Whichever route you choose, make sure to research the specific needs of your chosen plants to ensure they thrive in your container garden.

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Back Porch Garden Tips

When growing in containers, there are a few tips that you can use to ensure your plants establish good roots from the start, giving you a bigger harvest later on.

#1. Choose a Sunny Spot

Most vegetables and herbs need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, so make sure your chosen location gets enough sun.

Growing Tip: Do some research before you plant. Check the sun at key times throughout the day to monitor just how much sunlight there is. This will help you to give your plants the best chance from day one.

#2. Use Good Soil

Choosing the right soil is crucial for container gardening. Look for a high-quality potting mix that is specifically designed for container plants and has good drainage.

Growing Tip: You can also add in some compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients to your plants.

#3. Water Regularly

Container gardens typically dry out faster than traditional gardens, so it’s important to water them regularly. Check the moisture level of the soil daily and make sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Growing Tip: A good way to check if your plants need watering is by sticking your finger into the soil – if it feels dry 1-2 inches below the surface, it’s time to water.

#4. Fertilize Correctly

Container plants rely on you for their nutrients since they can’t draw from the ground like traditional gardens.

Use a balanced fertilizer, such as one with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and follow the application instructions on the packaging carefully. 

Growing Tip: You can also use organic fertilizers such as compost tea or fish emulsion for a more natural option.

#5. Adjust as Needed

As the plants grow, you may need to make adjustments to ensure the best growth. Add more soil, move plants around to get more sun, and add support as they grow.

Growing Tip: Containers are very similar to traditional gardens, and your plants will need a lot of the same care. For heavy fruit bearers such as tomatoes, you will still need to add support such as a trellis or cage, to keep their stems and fruit secure as they grow.

How to Set up a Back Porch Garden

Growing a container garden is very similar to a traditional garden with just a few extra steps you will need to do when starting out.

#1. Wash and Prep the Containers

Before planting, make sure to thoroughly wash and sanitize your containers with warm water and soap. This will help prevent any potential diseases or pests from affecting your plants.

#2. Add Drainage Holes

If your containers do not already have drainage holes, drill a few in the bottom for proper water flow. Without adequate drainage, the roots of your plants can become waterlogged, leading to stunted growth or root rot.

#3. Put Them in Their Location

Once planted, most containers can be heavy, so you will want to have them in their spot before adding soil. Remember to choose an area that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.

#3. Add Your Soil Mix

Fill your containers with a mixture of potting soil and compost, leaving about an inch at the top for watering. This will provide your plants with the necessary nutrients to grow healthy and strong.

#4. Plant

Choose plants that are suitable for container gardening and plant them according to their specific needs. Be sure to give each plant enough space to grow and thrive. You can also mix and match plants to create a beautiful and diverse container garden.

Caring for Your New Porch Garden

Just like a traditional garden, chores and care will be needed daily and weekly to ensure your plants grow consistently.

Daily Care

1. Water: The heat and humidity in your area will play a big role in how often each container needs water. Most plants will require watering daily or at least every other day. Be sure to check the soil first by sticking your finger in about an inch to feel if it’s dry.
2. Weather:  Storms and high winds can be tough on your garden, but even more so if you are growing in containers. You can shelter them easily by moving them under a table, covering them with a light tarp, or bringing them inside altogether.

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Weekly Chores

1. Fertilize: Use a slow-release fertilizer or add compost to provide your plants with the necessary nutrients.
2. Check for pests: Pests can be an issue in container gardens, so it’s important to regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation. Turn leaves over and look for eggs, damage, or fungus, and treat them as needed.
3. Replenish soil: As your plants grow, the soil in their containers can naturally settle, and you may need to add fresh soil. Topping off helps provide essential support and nutrients, giving your plants the best chance to flourish in their container home.

Unique Gardening Options

Aside from traditional gardening pots, there are also a few fun and unique options to explore when creating a back porch garden. The latest trend is straw bale gardening.

Straw bale is a cheap, low-maintenance option that requires no soil as it supports the plants’ root system from the inside. It’s perfect for those who are short on space or want to try something new.

Straw bale gardening is easier than you think! Discover the Best Plants for Straw Bale Gardening and get started today.

More Straw Bale Gardening Resources:

• What is Straw Bale Gardening
• How to Prepare Straw Bales for Planting
• Best Plants for Straw Bale Gardening

A back porch garden is a perfect solution for anyone who loves the idea of gardening but is short on space, time, or simply needs an easier way to grow.

It’s an easy and fun way to grow your own fresh veggies, herbs, or even fruit right outside your back door.

With so many container options and setups to choose from, you can create a convenient produce-producing garden on your porch, deck, or patio. How to start a backyard garden without the backbreaking work allowing you to fill your kitchen and pantry with the food you love.

Grow your confidence as you grow your garden. This Gardening 101 breaks it all down step by step.

More Container Garden Resources:

• How to Grow Potatoes in Containers
• Container Gardening Supply List
• How to Grow Herbs in Containers