Think you don’t have enough outdoor space to start a garden? Think again. “Container gardening can help you create your own oasis of fresh herbs and veggies and enjoy the many health benefits that come with gardening,” says CentraState health coach and avid gardener Neftali Flores, RN. “Gardening reduces stress, boosts mindfulness, connects you to nature, provides plant-based nutrients and keeps you active.”
The good news is that you don’t need a big yard or green thumb to start—just a few pots, sunlight and a little know-how. New Jersey’s spring temperatures and conditions are ideal for creating a container garden once the dangers of frost have passed.
Don’t worry if you’re green to gardening – here are Flores’s step-by-step starter tips:
- Decide what you want to grow. The Garden State’s spring climate works well for several seasonal selections, including vegetables like cherry tomatoes, peppers, green beans and eggplant and easy-to-grow herbs such as basil, parsley, rosemary, mint, chives and thyme.
- Plan ahead and choose the right containers. Look for containers with good drainage that are large enough to accommodate roots. Terra cotta, plastic or resin planters all work well.
- Pick a sunny spot. Most edible plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Start with seedlings (partially grown plants). They’re more manageable and produce faster results than using seeds. Once you’re more confident, you can experiment with sowing your own seeds directly into the soil, especially with fast-growing veggies like lettuce or radishes.
- Use a high-quality potting mix instead of garden soil. Potting mix is lighter, drains better and supports root growth. Add compost (decaying organic material used as fertilizer) or slow-release organic fertilizer for nutrients.
- Water regularly, especially as temperatures rise. Most containers need watering once a day, ideally in the morning or early evening.
- Watch for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellow leaves. Causes may include overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, inadequate light, pests or diseases. Also, remember to protect your plants from late frosts by covering them or moving them indoors.
- Stay consistent. A little care goes a long way. Remove dead leaves and harvest regularly to encourage growth.
Ready to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful container garden blooming with flavor and goodness? Dig in, get growing and enjoy using your own veggies and herbs to enhance your healthy recipe repertoire! Savor homegrown goodness with this delicious dish:
Mediterranean Cherry Tomato & Herb Salad (Servings: 2-4)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, basil, parsley and garlic.
- Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over salad
- Toss gently to mix all the flavors
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
(source: American Heart Association)
LIVE LIFE WELL
Looking for other ways to take control of your health and well-being? CentraState’s LIVE LIFE WELL℠ program can help with education and support to live your best life, no matter where you are on the health spectrum. Visit LIVE LIFE WELL to learn more.
