Hello, my name is Kyle and this is my gardening blog. I discovered gardening after I was injured in a serious car accident. I had to take many months off work to recover and I needed to find something to fill the time. My friend suggested that some light gardening might help me. I wasn't so sure but I soon discovered that being outside and working with nature really helped my recovery. I learnt an awful lot about gardening and the equipment you need to look after plants and trees. I hope my blog inspires you to get out in the garden.
Apartment-dwellers now make up more than a quarter of the Australian population. However, that doesn't mean that Australians have given up on gardening. Hydroponic growing methods make it possible to enjoy raising plants indoors, even when you have very little space. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
1. Choose What You Want to Grow
Some plants thrive in a small hydroponic system, whereas others like to spread their roots and crowd out their neighbours. Herbs such as basil, chives, dill, mint and oregano are quick and easy to grow indoors. Watercress is ideal for a hydroponic garden, while other tasty crops that can work well include beans, strawberries and tomatoes. Steer clear of larger plants, such as squash or corn.
2. Select a Sunny Spot
All plants need at least some light to grow and thrive. A north-facing windowsill or balcony is a great place to set up your apartment garden. If your apartment gets very little sun, you'll need to invest in a grow lamp to give your plants the light they need. Place your lamp and plants inside a reflective grow tent to increase the amount of light the plants receive.
3. Choose Your Hydroponic System
There are various types of hydroponic system that you can use to cultivate your plants. One of the most popular hydroponic methods among apartment gardeners is the ebb and flow system. This kind of system uses a pump and a timer to release water and nutrients into the tray where plants are growing several times a day. A more advanced system is an aeroponic growing system, where roots are suspended in mid-air and misted with nutrient solution every few minutes. Visit a hydroponic store to find out which type of system is suitable for the plants you want to grow.
4. Watch Out for Pests
Inspect your plants regularly for signs of pest damage. If you see discoloration or holes in the leaves of your plants, you may have some unwanted visitors in your indoor garden. Tackle the pest problem by isolating the affected plants and treating them with an organic pest spray. Neem oil is a popular choice among indoor gardeners, as it prevents insects from laying eggs. You can purchase this natural pest control solution from a garden centre or hydroponic store.
Remember to check the condition of your plants regularly. Indoor gardening can be a lot of fun, but it requires commitment to help your plants to thrive. For more information, ask for advice at your local hydroponic store.
Share22 April 2016
