how I started a square foot garden
Following my early summer visit to Copenhagen, as the warm breeze of summer began to sweep over the city, I found myself eager to connect with nature and bring a burst of life to my surroundings. Inspired by the idea of growing some of my own food and creating a green oasis in the heart of the city, I began the adventure of creating a square foot garden. Despite the late start at the end of June, I was determined to make the most of the season and nurture my very own patch of green paradise.
Planning and Building the Raised Beds
Full of enthusiasm, I began by planning my square foot garden. Firstly, I sketched out the layout for two raised beds that would house my future garden and then carefully I selected a variety of vegetables and herbs to plant, considering the local climate and the short growing season.
a whimsical garden dance on my iPad - embracing the layout imperfections and the charm of a personal touch
Eager to gather the materials necessary to bring our garden to life, I went to the local DIY store together with my partner. Armed with wood, nails, and a few essential tools, we crafted the raised beds that would soon house the selected plants. The satisfaction of building these beds from scratch was immensely rewarding and added a personal touch to my gardening journey.
proudly admiring the raised beds now filled with nourishing soil
Grid Planning and Execution
With the raised beds in place, it was time to explore the heart of square foot gardening: the grid. I determined the available space and divided it into square foot sections, which roughly translated to 30-centimeter squares.
This strategic division allowed me to make the most of my limited space and ensured that each plant had room to flourish without overcrowding. Using a simple string, I marked out the squares, creating a visual guide for planting and maintaining the garden. This step might have seemed tedious, but it was an essential foundation that would soon transform into a symphony of colours and flavours.
making the most of any limited space
Planting Day
The long awaited day arrived, and armed with seeds and seedlings I began to bring life to the carefully marked squares. Each chosen plant had its own unique set of needs and characteristics, but I was eager to learn more about each one and provide them with the necessary care.
Cucumbers, with their sprawling vines, found a cozy home in one corner, while tomatoes reached for the sky nearby. The sturdy and robust eggplants and peppers proudly stood in their designated squares, promising a future harvest of vibrant hues and delectable tastes.
Zucchinis, known for their rapid growth, found their place with ample room to spread their leaves. Nearby, the compact cauliflowers took shape. In another corner, radishes sprouted with enthusiasm, promising a quick reward for my efforts.
The delicate lettuces and hardy carrots shared space harmoniously, their differing root depths and growth rates carefully considered during the planning phase. As I gently planted the seedlings, I couldn't help but marvel at the potential that lay before me.
Nurturing and Growth
As the weeks passed, my square foot garden transformed into a lush haven. The care I provided paid off as I witnessed the gradual growth of my plants.
The cucumber vines reached out, grasping the trellis I had provided for support. The peppers and eggplants formed a stunning display of colors, each plant showcasing its unique personality. Zucchinis and cauliflowers flourished, requiring a watchful eye to ensure they didn't encroach on their neighbours. Radishes were the first to grace my plate, their spicy crunch a testament to the rewards of patience. Lettuces and carrots, tended with care, promised future delights as they matured in their designated spaces.
Harvesting Happiness
From the initial grid planning to the joyful act of planting and its growth, my square foot garden journey has been a lesson in patience, adaptability, and the communion of all living things. As I stand among the thriving greenery, I'm reminded that while the late start might have posed a challenge, the rewards of my efforts are seen in the vibrant, flourishing ecosystem I've created. This square foot garden isn't just a collection of plants—it’s a proof of determination, the resilience of nature, and the beauty of watching life unfold in every carefully marked square.
