Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Ecology Foundation
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
#Ecotrends. Home gardening
Almost every home has a window sill adorned with flower pots. More and more people are starting to purposefully grow fresh herbs and even vegetables on their windowsills. Home gardening is especially popular. received against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemicModern research suggests that tending your own small garden can become a real hobby, uplifting and stress-relieving.
What can you grow at home?
Microgreens are young crop sprouts harvested at an early stage of growth. Microgreens are grown from both traditional greens (lettuce, onions, dill, parsley, cilantro, basil) and plants rarely used as greens (radishes, daikon, beets).
Greens grown from seeds are the same crops listed earlier. However, they require more time to grow.
Vegetables include dwarf, self-pollinating varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplants, as well as beans and even onions and carrots. It's recommended to move on to growing vegetables after successfully growing microgreens and herbs.
How to create a suitable microclimate for a home mini-garden?
To maintain healthy and abundant plant growth, it's important to create optimal conditions. Below are some of the key ones:
Lighting. A south-, east-, or west-facing windowsill is ideal. Grow lights can be used for additional lighting. Sun-loving plants, such as basil, should be moved closer to the lights, while shade-tolerant plants, such as lettuce or spinach, should be placed at the edges.
Humidity. On average, a moderate humidity level for indoor plants is 40-60%. Insufficient moisture can cause wilting, while excess moisture can lead to root rot. During the heating season, it is recommended to use humidifiers, place containers of water near the plants, or hang wet towels on radiators.
Temperature. The optimal temperature for most houseplants is considered to be between 18 and 24°C. Avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts. To protect against the cold, you can use wooden stands or insulating material.
Substrate. The choice of planting material depends on the crop. Typically, houseplants prefer a loose, well-drained substrate with good air permeability. Soil or potting mix is traditionally used. You can also try innovative methods like hydroponics, which use jute fiber, coconut coir, linen mats, or mineral wool.
What are the benefits of growing crops at home?
It's economical: growing your own vegetables at home allows you to harvest them without having to buy them in the store.
It's environmentally friendly: growing your own food reduces the burden on transport systems and reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with the transportation and production of agricultural products.
It's beneficial: growing herbs at home allows you to eat fresh produce all year round and helps you avoid using chemicals.
This is interesting: in an apartment garden, you can experiment and plant different crops, not limiting yourself to one type.
Home gardening isn't just a trendy fad, but a conscious decision by city dwellers who want to enjoy fresh, home-grown vegetables and herbs year-round!
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.