From Cityscape to Greenscape: Starting Our Urban Farm Herb Garden in December
December might feel like an odd time to start a garden, but it’s actually perfect for planning and prepping your urban farm herb garden! With colder weather keeping you indoors, now is the time to map out your vision, gather materials on a budget, and set the foundation for a thriving herb garden in the months ahead. Whether you’re dreaming of fresh basil on your windowsill or a lush array of herbs in raised garden beds, this guide will help you get started.
Why December is Perfect for Planning Your Herb Garden
While December may not be the best time for outdoor planting in most climates, it’s an excellent time to focus on:
- Researching herbs that grow well in your area.
- Designing your garden layout to maximize small urban spaces.
- Sourcing materials for raised beds or planters, especially on a budget.
- Setting goals for your urban farm to make it both sustainable and cost-effective.
- Plant what you eat to maximize positively impacting your budget
Step 1: Plan Your Garden Space
Take some time to evaluate your available space and decide where your herb garden will go. For urban settings, consider:
- Windowsills: Ideal for smaller herbs like basil, mint, and parsley.
- Balconies or Patios: Great for larger planters or vertical gardens.
- Raised Garden Beds: A fantastic option if you have access to outdoor ground space.
Use this time to sketch out ideas for your garden layout. Drawing your plans helps you visualize how everything will fit and ensures you make the most of your available space.
Step 2: Budget-Friendly Materials
Gardening doesn’t have to break the bank. You can source materials inexpensively—or even for free—if you know where to look:
- Reusing Old Wood: Check your garage, shed, or construction sites (with permission) for scrap wood that can be repurposed into raised garden beds or planters.
- Facebook Marketplace and Community Groups: These platforms often have listings for free pallets, wood, or even garden supplies like pots and soil.
- Thrift Stores and Yard Sales: You can often find affordable containers, tools, and other gardening essentials.
- Creative Alternatives: Use items like old buckets, crates, or even upcycled furniture for unique planters.
Step 3: Research Plants and Growing Conditions
Not all herbs thrive in the same environment, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your space and climate. In December, spend time researching:
- Herbs That Thrive Indoors: Basil, mint, parsley, thyme, and rosemary are great for indoor growing.
- Sunlight Requirements: Herbs generally need 4-6 hours of sunlight, so consider adding grow lights if your space is lacking natural light.
- Companion Planting: Some herbs grow better together. For example, basil and parsley can thrive in the same container.
Take notes and bookmark resources like USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map or Better Homes & Gardens Gardening Guides to guide your plant selection.
Step 4: Prepare Your Garden Boxes
If you’re planning to use raised garden beds or containers, now’s the time to prep:
- Measure and Build: Use your repurposed wood or free materials to create sturdy, well-sized boxes. Line the bottoms with weed barriers or old newspapers.
- Choose Soil: Purchase or make nutrient-rich soil to ensure healthy plant growth.
- Test Your Setup: Place your containers in their intended spots to confirm they get adequate sunlight.
Step 5: Set Your Goals and Get Excited!
December is all about preparation, so use this time to set your gardening goals:
- How much space do you want to dedicate to herbs?
- What specific herbs will you grow, and how will you use them (e.g., cooking, teas, or aromatherapy)?
- How can you make your garden sustainable and budget-friendly?
Final Thoughts
Starting your urban farm herb garden in December is about laying the groundwork for success. From reusing old wood for garden beds to finding free materials on Facebook Marketplace, there are endless ways to make your garden budget-friendly and sustainable. Research your plants, sketch out ideas, and get your hands on the tools you’ll need to hit the ground running when spring arrives.
By taking these steps, you’ll be ready to grow a thriving herb garden that brings fresh flavors and greenery to your urban space. Share your progress with us in the comments below—we’d love to see how your cityscape transforms into a greenscape! 🌱