Urban Gardening

Urban gardening is the practice of growing plants, fruits, and vegetables in cities and densely populated areas using various planting methods.

Urban Gardening - 9/22-9/28/2025

You might think that living in a high-rise apartment in New York City means you've kissed your gardening dreams goodbye. I get it – when you're surrounded by concrete and steel, the idea of growing your own food or beautiful plants can seem impossible. But here's the thing: you're actually in one of the best places in the world to join the urban gardening movement, and you don't need a single square foot of yard space to make it happen.

We here at David's Garden Seeds® get a lot of orders for seeds that get mailed to New York City. Can you believe it? Yes, there are many rooftop and balcony gardens in the big city.

The urban gardening movement is a growing revolution that's transforming cities across America. It's about regular people like you discovering that you can grow fresh herbs, vegetables, and flowers right where you live – whether that's on a fire escape, a windowsill, a rooftop, or even inside your apartment. This movement isn't just about plants; it's about taking control of your food, connecting with nature, and building stronger communities in the heart of the city.

What makes urban gardening so powerful is that it's completely accessible to anyone willing to try. You don't need special training, expensive equipment, or years of experience. You just need the desire to grow something green and the willingness to learn as you go. Thousands of city dwellers have already discovered that they can create thriving gardens in the smallest spaces, and you can too.

The beauty of city gardening is that it adapts to your life, not the other way around. Whether you have five minutes a day or an hour, whether you have a tiny studio apartment or a spacious loft, there's a way to make urban gardening work for you. The key is starting small and building your confidence as you learn what works in your specific space.

Let's address your biggest concern right away: yes, you absolutely can garden without a yard. In fact, some of the most productive urban gardens I've seen are grown entirely in containers. When you grow a garden in pots, you actually have more control over your plants' environment than traditional gardeners do. You can move plants to catch the best light, protect them from harsh weather, and give each plant exactly the soil conditions it needs.

Have you ever seen the first episode of Green Acres, a 1960s sitcom about a city lawyer with a garden in pots?

The urban gardening movement started gaining momentum in the 1970s when city residents began transforming vacant lots into community gardens. Today, it's evolved into something much bigger. It includes rooftop farms that supply restaurants, vertical gardens on building walls, hydroponic systems in basements, and simple herb gardens on kitchen counters. The movement represents a fundamental shift in how we think about food production and green space in cities.

One of the most exciting aspects of urban gardening is how it brings people together. Community gardens create spaces where neighbors meet, share knowledge, and build relationships. Even if you're gardening solo in your apartment, you'll find yourself connecting with other urban gardeners online, at farmers markets, and in gardening stores. There's a real sense of camaraderie among people who are growing their own food in the city.

The environmental benefits of urban gardening extend far beyond your individual plants. When city residents grow their own food, it reduces the distance that produce travels from farm to table. This cuts down on transportation emissions and packaging waste. Urban gardens also help improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, and provide habitat for birds and beneficial insects.

From a health perspective, urban gardening offers benefits that go way beyond the fresh produce you'll harvest. The physical activity of tending plants, even in containers, provides gentle exercise. The mental health benefits are significant too – there's something deeply satisfying about nurturing plants and watching them grow. Many urban gardeners report feeling less stressed and more connected to the natural world.

The economic advantages of growing your own food in the city can be substantial. Fresh herbs from the grocery store cost several dollars per package, but you can grow months' worth from a single plant that costs less than one store-bought package. Organic vegetables are expensive, but you can grow them yourself for the cost of seeds and potting soil. Over time, your urban garden can significantly reduce your grocery bills. Don't forget that David's Garden Seeds® has all of the seeds you need to start your urban gardening quest.

Getting started with urban gardening doesn't require a big investment. You can begin with just a few dollars' worth of seeds and a couple of containers you already have around your apartment. As you gain experience and confidence, you can gradually invest in better equipment and expand your growing space. The key is to start simple and build from there.

The first step in your urban gardening journey is assessing your available space and light conditions. Take a walk around your apartment and look for spots that get at least four to six hours of sunlight per day. South-facing windows are ideal, but east and west-facing windows can work too. Don't worry if you don't have perfect conditions – many plants can adapt to less-than-ideal lighting. Don't forget that you can always order some grow lights off of Amazon if you don't get enough sunlight.

If you're wondering where to get dirt when you don't have a yard to dig in, you're not alone. This is one of the most common questions new urban gardeners ask. The answer is simpler than you might think: you buy potting soil from garden centers, hardware stores, or even online. Never use soil from the ground in the city, as it can contain contaminants and won't drain properly in containers.

Quality potting soil is one of the most important investments you'll make in your urban garden. Look for mixes that are specifically designed for containers – they'll drain well while retaining enough moisture for your plants. Avoid cheap potting soils that are mostly peat or bark, as these don't provide the nutrients your plants need. A good potting mix will contain compost, vermiculite or perlite, and other organic materials.

Seeds will absolutely grow in pots – in fact, they often grow better in containers than in garden beds because you have more control over their environment. The key is choosing the right size container for what you're growing. Herbs can thrive in small pots, while tomatoes need larger containers to accommodate their root systems. Most seed packets will give you guidance on spacing and container size.

Container selection is crucial for successful urban gardening. You don't need expensive planters – yogurt containers, coffee cans, and plastic storage boxes can all work as long as you drill drainage holes in the bottom. The most important factors are size, drainage, and durability. Your containers need to be large enough for your plants' root systems and able to withstand regular watering and moving.

Drainage is absolutely critical when you're growing plants in containers. Without proper drainage, your plants' roots will rot and die. Every container needs holes in the bottom to allow excess water to escape. If you're worried about water damaging your floors, place saucers under your pots to catch the runoff. Just make sure to empty these saucers regularly so your plants aren't sitting in standing water.

Watering container plants requires a different approach than watering a traditional garden. Container plants dry out faster than plants in the ground, especially in hot weather or heated apartments. You'll need to check your plants daily and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Light is the fuel that powers your plants, so understanding your available light is crucial for success. If your apartment doesn't get enough natural light, don't give up on urban gardening. As mentioned above, LED grow lights have become affordable and energy-efficient, allowing you to grow plants anywhere in your home. Many urban gardeners use a combination of natural and artificial light to keep their plants thriving year-round.

When choosing what to grow in your urban garden, start with plants that are forgiving and productive. Herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro are perfect for beginners because they grow quickly, don't need large containers, and you'll use them regularly in cooking. Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach are also excellent choices for new urban gardeners.

Tomatoes are one of the most popular urban gardening crops, and for good reason. There's nothing quite like a fresh tomato that you've grown yourself. Cherry tomatoes are particularly well-suited to container growing because they produce lots of fruit on compact plants. Choose determinate varieties if you have limited space, as they stay smaller than indeterminate types.

Peppers are another excellent choice for urban gardeners. They thrive in containers and produce abundantly throughout the growing season. Hot peppers tend to be especially productive in small spaces, and a little goes a long way in cooking. Sweet peppers need slightly larger containers but are still very manageable for apartment growing.

Don't overlook the power of growing your own herbs. Fresh herbs are expensive to buy but cheap and easy to grow. A single basil plant can provide you with fresh pesto ingredients all summer long. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano are perennial herbs that will keep producing for years with minimal care. Having fresh herbs at your fingertips will transform your cooking.

Microgreens are perfect for urban gardeners who want quick results and maximum nutrition. These young vegetable shoots are ready to harvest in just 7 to 14 days and pack an incredible nutritional punch. You can grow them in shallow trays on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. They're expensive to buy in stores but cost pennies to grow at home.

Vertical growing is a game-changer for urban gardeners with limited space. You can create vertical gardens using wall-mounted planters, hanging baskets, or even repurposed shoe organizers. This approach allows you to grow many more plants in the same footprint. Trailing plants like cherry tomatoes and herbs work particularly well in vertical systems.

Window boxes are classic urban gardening solutions that work even in high-rise apartments. They maximize your growing space while keeping plants close to natural light. Make sure your window boxes are securely mounted and consider the weight when they're filled with soil and water. Choose plants that won't grow too tall and block your view or light.

If you have access to a balcony, fire escape, or rooftop space, you've hit the urban gardening jackpot. These outdoor spaces typically get much more light than indoor locations and can accommodate larger plants and containers. Just be mindful of wind exposure, which can dry out plants quickly and may require you to stake taller plants.

Indoor urban gardening opens up possibilities that outdoor gardeners can only dream of. You can grow plants year-round, control the temperature and humidity, and protect your plants from pests and diseases. Many urban gardeners find that they actually prefer indoor growing because of the control it gives them over growing conditions.

Hydroponic systems are becoming increasingly popular among urban gardeners who want to maximize their yields in minimal space. These soil-free growing systems deliver nutrients directly to plants' roots through water solutions. While they require a higher initial investment, hydroponic systems can produce impressive amounts of food in very small spaces.

Composting might seem impossible in a city apartment, but it's actually quite doable with the right approach. Worm composting (vermicomposting) can be done in a small bin under your kitchen sink. The worms eat your food scraps and produce rich compost that will supercharge your urban garden. It's odorless when done correctly and provides a sustainable way to deal with kitchen waste.

Community gardens offer urban dwellers the chance to garden on a larger scale while building relationships with neighbors. Many cities have waiting lists for community garden plots, but it's worth putting your name down. These shared spaces provide access to tools, water, and the collective knowledge of experienced gardeners. They're also great places to learn from others and share your own experiences.

Seed starting is one of the most rewarding aspects of urban gardening. Watching a tiny seed transform into a productive plant never gets old. You can start seeds on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Starting from seeds is much cheaper than buying plants and gives you access to varieties you won't find in stores. Plus, there's something magical about growing a plant from its very beginning.

Timing is important in urban gardening, just as it is in traditional gardening. Even though you're growing indoors or in containers, plants still respond to seasonal changes in light and temperature. Learn about your plants' preferred growing seasons and plan accordingly. Many urban gardeners grow cool-season crops like lettuce in fall and winter, then switch to warm-season crops like tomatoes in spring and summer.

Pest management in urban gardens is usually much simpler than in outdoor gardens. You'll deal with fewer pests overall, and the ones you do encounter are easier to control. Aphids and spider mites are the most common indoor pests, but they can be managed with insecticidal soap or simply by washing plants with water. Prevention through good air circulation and avoiding overwatering is your best defense.

Fertilizing container plants requires more attention than fertilizing garden beds because nutrients wash out of containers with regular watering. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Organic options like fish emulsion or compost tea work well for urban gardens. Don't over-fertilize, as this can actually harm your plants and reduce fruit production.

Succession planting is a technique that allows you to harvest fresh produce continuously rather than getting a huge harvest all at once. Plant new seeds every two weeks for crops like lettuce and radishes. This ensures you'll have fresh greens available throughout the growing season rather than dealing with a glut followed by nothing.

Urban gardening tools don't need to be extensive or expensive. A small trowel, pruning shears, and watering can or spray bottle will handle most tasks. Many urban gardeners find that kitchen utensils work just fine for small-scale gardening. A fork for loosening soil, scissors for harvesting, and measuring cups for mixing fertilizer solutions are all you really need to get started.

Record keeping might not sound exciting, but it's incredibly valuable for urban gardeners. Keep notes about what you plant, when you plant it, and how it performs. This information will help you improve your results each season. Take photos of your plants' progress – it's rewarding to look back and see how far you've come, and the photos can help you troubleshoot problems.

The urban gardening community is incredibly welcoming and helpful. Don't be afraid to ask questions on social media groups, gardening forums, or at local garden centers. Most experienced gardeners love sharing their knowledge and helping newcomers succeed. You'll find that urban gardeners are particularly good at creative problem-solving since they've all faced similar space and resource constraints.

Seasonal transitions in urban gardening require some planning but offer opportunities to grow different crops throughout the year. As outdoor temperatures drop, you might move plants indoors or switch to cold-tolerant crops. Many urban gardeners find that they can grow food year-round by adjusting their plant choices and growing locations seasonally.

Water quality can affect your urban garden's success. If your tap water is heavily chlorinated, let it sit out overnight before using it on your plants, or use filtered water. Some urban gardeners collect rainwater when possible, though this can be challenging in high-rise apartments. The key is providing consistent moisture without overwatering.

Space efficiency becomes an art form in urban gardening. Look for compact plant varieties bred specifically for container growing. Bush beans instead of pole beans, determinate tomatoes instead of indeterminate, and dwarf fruit trees instead of full-size varieties all help you maximize your harvest in minimal space. Every square inch counts when you're gardening in the city.

Harvesting from your urban garden is one of life's great pleasures. Pick herbs regularly to encourage new growth. Harvest leafy greens when they're young and tender. For fruiting plants like tomatoes and peppers, regular harvesting encourages continued production. There's nothing quite like walking to your windowsill or balcony to gather ingredients for dinner.

Preserving your urban garden harvest extends the benefits of your growing efforts. Even small-space gardens can produce more than you can eat fresh. Learn simple preservation techniques like freezing herbs in ice cubes, drying peppers, or making pesto to freeze. These preserved foods will remind you of your gardening success throughout the year.

Troubleshooting problems is part of the urban gardening learning process. Yellow leaves might indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Stunted growth could mean insufficient light or too small a container. Don't get discouraged by setbacks – every experienced gardener has killed plants while learning. Each failure teaches you something that will help you succeed next time.

Expanding your urban garden happens naturally as you gain confidence and experience. You might start with a few herbs on a windowsill and gradually add more containers, try new crops, or invest in grow lights. Many urban gardeners find themselves constantly looking for new growing spaces and creative solutions as their passion grows.

The economics of urban gardening become more favorable as you scale up and gain experience. Your initial investment in containers, soil, and seeds pays for itself quickly when you consider the cost of fresh herbs and organic vegetables. Over time, you'll develop systems that reduce ongoing costs and increase productivity.

Sharing your urban gardening success with others multiplies the joy and impact of your efforts. Give away excess produce to neighbors, share seeds with friends, or teach others what you've learned.

Monday, September 22, 2025

Good morning and welcome to another week on the farm. Right now, as I eat my eggs and sourdough toast, there is a man working in the garden beds in front of my store, pulling up all of the old, dead flowers that I have not had time to do because I am filling orders.

I happened to notice him as I walked by the front door which David has open. I asked him if there is supposed to be a strange man in the parking lot and he said yes.

I have been putting together some pinwheels that came in a kit of things to keep birds away. Trump came into my office to play so I grabbed one thinking he would enjoy it. I pulled it through the air and he freaked. As a matter of fact, when they heard it, the other two dogs came running and all three freaked and ran to hide. They are all afraid of the pinwheels! Hilarious.

I fed the fish and then cleaned the filter. As I was going toward the steps, I saw a multi-colored snake crawl under the steps, right before me. Naturally, I let out a loud scream.

There are five other adults on the premises. Two workers in the parking lot, Matt in the store, a worker in the other building, and David. Did anyone come to my rescue? No. I have no one. I ran up the stairs and into the store. Matt looked at me like I am so stupid. He heard the scream and when I told him, he said oh, it was a coral snake.

We had a customer who wanted tree seeds. He said we would do well if we would just sell tree seeds because everyone wants to plant trees and no so much with everything that we carry.

They had to take off the wooden skirting before pulling the shed out.

Magically, it was gone very quickly but then stayed in our driveway blocking the entrance for quite a while.

The man who bought the barn shed is on his way out now to get it. When he gets here, we will clock him for fun and see if he can beat the almost six hour record for moving a shed off of the property. What a promising day.

They spent the better part of 2 hours trying to load the shed but the trailer was not wide enough. They finally left.

Well, moving the shed out of the backyard was quick and easy because these people brought a little tractor like machine. The problem came when they tried to load the 16 foot wide shed onto the trailer they brought. It was not wide enough for the shed to sit straight because of the tire things built into it. It took about two hours for them to get it on there crooked and strap it in. It was three and a half hours before they finally drove the shed out of the gate.

Finally! After 3.5 hours, it is leaving.

Two more sheds are leaving on Saturday. I sure hope they bring all of the correct equipment.

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Good morning. We had pancakes and sausage for breakfast.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Thursday, September 25, 2025

Friday, September 26, 2025

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Sunday, September 28, 2025

Return from Urban Gardening to Year Seven Of Farm Life

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