Shape and Save using Square Foot Gardening

In this age where there’s not an inch to stand, gardening seems like a utopian vision. Keeping in mind the space constraints, square foot gardens have become the fashion. It lets you have your green niche in a very little space – be it a balcony or even a windowsill.

The phrase “square foot gardening” was popularized by Mel Bartholomew. Square foot gardening is the method of planning and planting small gardens. Organic gardening, compost and bio intensive care are some concepts that play a role in this. This method is very beneficial for poor soil. Square foot gardens are saviours; they save soil, water, time and also effort. It is also a good recreational activity for handicapped people as it is accessible for people on wheelchairs. Let us now see how Bob The Builder will help us in creating our very own SFG.

Bob The Builder says,

• Choose an easy layout and start by building a box. You could use a wooden packaging box or even an plastic milk carton
• Fill the box with a soil mix that should contain 1/3 parts of compost + 1/3 parts of cocopeat + 1/3 parts of red mud and some sand
• Construct grids of 16 (30cm) segments using strings, wooden sticks or plastic.
• Be creative and decide on the plants you want to grow.
• Plant the seeds and plant different kinds in different segments.
• Remember to add the magic soil that we made every time after harvesting and replant!

TRICKS AND TIPS

• Compost – Some common ones are poultry or manure, green waste, or worm castings. One super way to have a blended compost is to start your own compost pile and be the master.
• Best Size – The best size option is a 4X4 box.
• Companion Planting– Check the companion planting guide in our blog and plant accordingly for a merry experience gardening.
• Pest Control – Make sure that proper aids for pest control are made to ensure the healthy growth of the plants.
• Be Creative – Make your own rules. Make as many grids as you want and keep the look as creative as possible.

So get ready with your hammers and shovels and build and dig your way to happiness.

HAPPY BUILDING 🙂

Written by Nishta Chakravorty for GreenMyLife