Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Easy to Grow/Hard to Kill Gardening

Yesterday I was on the playground with my kids, having a conversation with Chelsea Kay *waves* and it dawned on me that there are probably just a few reasons why people are intimidated or are hesitant to take the plunge and try gardening.

1. lack of desire to get dirty/work in the yard
2. fear of failure

So while I can't do a thing about a person's lack of enthusiasm about working in the yard, the second part I might be able to help you get over! I think the key is starting small and starting with things that require little work but have a high yield. That way you will not only build confidence but see the literal fruits of your labor. So for the intimidated in the group, try the following easy to grow plants

Flowers:
Lilies - You could practically set these on fire and they would come back!
Black Eyed Susans
Hostas - Perfect for shaded areas of your yard
Yarrow - Is heat and drought tolerant
Lamb's Ear

Edibles:
Tomatoes
Cucumbers
Zucchini
Red & Green Peppers
Lettuce

Indoor Growing:
Aloe - Smells wonderful and is great for cuts!
Bonsai trees
Ponytail Palm - Great for people who forget to water their plants!

Herbs:
Basil
Parsley
Chives
Mint - If you plant this outside, make sure you watch it. It's been known to grow wildly!
Lavender
Oregano
Rosemary
Sage
Thyme


2 comments:

KarlandBethany said...

one suggestion to help keep mint from getting out of control-

1. plant in a clay pot.
2. dig a hole and put the pot- with the mint in it- in the ground.
3. fill-in rest of hole and around pot... can cover the pot completely if you want.

Olive said...

i was going to write that but it felt too long to interject! wonderful addition!