Gardening is not only a fun hobby, but it’s also a rewarding one with produce helping save money on groceries. Your mom’s mobility is minimal. You’d like to build her a patio garden, but the lumber and compost cost has you concerned. You don’t have a lot of money and need to keep the cost down. Is it even possible to create a thriving garden without spending a lot of money?
Elder Care in Markham: Patio Gardening
Skip Wood Beds and Get Plastic Utility Tubs
Many discount retailers sell 17-gallon utility tubs with rope handles for a few dollars. Purchase these and drill drain holes in the bottom of them. One of these buckets holds approximately 1.5 cubic feet of garden soil or compost. You can get 1.0 cubic foot bags of a compost/manure mix or garden soil at many home improvement or gardening stores for a couple of dollars.
The width and depth of a 17-gallon utility tub make it ideal for four or five plants. You could put an herb in the center of the pot and space four plants around the herb so that they’re equally spaced. With five tubs, you could have one filled with four tomato plants and basil. Another tub could have four pepper plants and cilantro.
They are deep enough that you could grow beets and carrots. Chard, spinach and green onions are other options. If you want to grow squash or cucumbers, make sure you’re not overcrowding the tub with too many plants. You shouldn’t plant more than two per pot.
Purchase Plants in June
Most gardeners aim to have gardens in place by Memorial Day. Any plants that aren’t sold by mid-June typically go on clearance. This is the best time to get established plants for very little money. You probably found the tomato and pepper plants already have flowers starting, so you get a jumpstart.
Water Raised Gardens Regularly
One thing about gardens grown in tubs like this is that they need constant water. The heat of the sun will warm the top of the soil and the sides. It may dry out faster. Make sure you have watering cans or a hose nearby for daily watering.
As your mom starts spending more time outside, make sure she’s not overdoing it. On hot days, hydration and protection from UVA and UVB rays are important. Caregivers help her keep track of time and know when it’s time to take a break.
When crops are ready, caregivers can help her harvest them and prepare them for meals and snacks. Discover the full range of services caregivers offer by calling an agency now.
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