Gardening is something I’ve always loved, but when I first started, I didn’t have the time or budget for a high-maintenance garden. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about what works (and what doesn’t). Now, I want to share some of my best tips with you—especially those that save both time and money. Whether you have a large yard or just a small balcony, these ideas can help you get started without breaking the bank.
1. Start Small, Focus on Basics
I remember when I was so excited about starting my first garden that I tried to do everything at once. Big mistake! It wasn’t until I scaled down and focused on a few key plants that I began to see success. Choose a few easy-to-grow plants like basil, marigolds, or lettuce to start. These plants don’t require much care and will build your confidence as you progress.
Source @theurbangardenher
Real-Life Example: I started with herbs in small containers. Basil was my favorite—super easy to grow, and it saved me money on buying fresh herbs from the store.
2. Choose Perennials Over Annuals
One of the easiest ways to save money over time is by planting perennials. These plants come back year after year, meaning you don’t have to repurchase them every season. In the long run, they’ll save you a lot of cash.
Source @lurveyhomeandgarden
Personal Tip: I’ve had a patch of lavender in my garden for years. Each year it grows bigger and stronger, and I don’t have to replant it!
3. Composting: Nature’s Gold
Composting might sound like something only experienced gardeners do, but I promise it’s easier than it seems. I started composting when I realized how much food waste I was throwing away, and now I have nutrient-rich soil to use in my garden. Composting reduces waste and cuts down on the need for expensive store-bought fertilizers.
Source @garbage.goddess
Real-Life Example: I used to buy bags of compost every spring until I started my own compost bin. Now I have an endless supply of nutrient-rich soil for my plants—and it’s free!
4. DIY Seed Starting
Instead of buying expensive seedlings every year, I learned to start my own seeds indoors. It takes a little extra effort, but it saves so much money. All you need are some containers, soil, and seeds. I started with tomatoes and peppers and was amazed at how much I could grow for a fraction of the price.
Source @shifting_roots
Personal Tip: I use old egg cartons to start my seeds. They’re perfect for small seedlings and can be composted afterward.
5. Use Mulch to Retain Moisture
Mulching is one of the best gardening practices I’ve ever adopted. It helps retain moisture in the soil, suppresses weeds, and keeps your plants healthy. Instead of spending money on plastic or synthetic mulch, I use grass clippings or shredded leaves. These materials are free and do the job just as well.
Source @mysaws
Real-Life Example: I’ve been using shredded leaves as mulch for years. Not only is it free, but it also gives my garden a neat, uniform look.
6. Watering Wisely
Watering is one of the most common mistakes beginners make. Over-watering or under-watering can both cause your plants to suffer. I’ve learned that watering deeply but less frequently is far more effective than frequent light waterings. Also, watering in the early morning helps reduce evaporation.
Source @lifeisagardensa
Personal Tip: I’ve installed a drip irrigation system, which saves me time and water. It’s easy to set up and ensures my plants get the right amount of water without waste.
7. Make Your Own Plant Food
Rather than spending money on expensive fertilizers, I started making my own. A simple mixture of Epsom salts, fish emulsion, and molasses does wonders for my plants. It’s affordable and effective—plus, I know exactly what’s going into it.
Source @homecrop
Real-Life Example: Last summer, my tomato plants were struggling until I started using this homemade fertilizer. The results were immediate: healthier plants and bigger tomatoes!
8. Use Recycled Containers for Planting
You don’t have to buy fancy pots for your garden. Recycled containers can serve as excellent planters. I’ve used everything from old wooden crates to yogurt cups. It’s a great way to repurpose items you already have and save money.
Source @project_rootsaz
Personal Tip: If you’re short on space, hanging baskets made from old coffee cans can work wonders.
9. Grow from Cuttings
One of the best money-saving tips I can offer is to propagate plants from cuttings. Many plants, like mint or rosemary, can be easily grown from a cutting. This method allows you to grow new plants without buying seeds or seedlings.
Source @gardeningknowhow
Real-Life Example: I propagated my grandmother’s rosemary plant, and now I have several new ones growing in my garden—free of charge!
10. Opt for Low-Maintenance Plants
It’s tempting to go for those gorgeous, high-maintenance plants, but in the long run, they can drain your time and wallet. Focus on hardy plants that are suited to your local climate. I’ve had great success with native plants, which are naturally resistant to pests and require less water.
Source @txlawnlegends
Personal Tip: In my garden, I’ve had great success with coneflowers and black-eyed Susans. They’re tough, beautiful, and attract pollinators without any extra work on my part.
11. Take Advantage of Vertical Gardening
If you’re short on space, vertical gardening is a game-changer. I’ve had great success with trellises for climbing plants like cucumbers, tomatoes, and beans. Not only does it save space, but it also adds an aesthetic vertical element to your garden. Using repurposed materials like old ladders or wooden pallets can further reduce costs.
Source @jaickagriproduce
Real-Life Example: I built a vertical garden out of an old wooden pallet, and now I grow strawberries on it. It’s cost-effective, space-saving, and adds charm to my garden.
12. Prune Your Plants Regularly
I’ve learned that pruning is essential to the health of my plants. Not only does it help with shaping, but it also prevents disease and promotes better growth. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time for pruning, as the plants are less stressed. If you cut back dead or damaged branches, the plant can focus its energy on producing new growth.
Source @ecobridgelandscape
Personal Tip: I try to prune my rose bushes every few weeks. This keeps them healthy and encourages more blooms throughout the season.
13. Use Companion Planting to Boost Growth
Companion planting is one of my favorite gardening strategies. Certain plants grow better when planted next to others. For example, I plant basil next to my tomatoes to help deter pests and improve flavor. It’s a simple, natural way to enhance your garden’s productivity.
Source @derivedfromnaturenz
Real-Life Example: I’ve had amazing success with companion planting in my vegetable garden. Marigolds next to my vegetables have kept pests away, and the beans grow better with corn as a companion.
14. Create a Pollinator-Friendly Garden
Pollinators like bees and butterflies are essential for a healthy garden, but they need food and shelter. I make it a point to plant nectar-rich flowers like sunflowers, lavender, and zinnias to attract pollinators. Not only does it save me money on store-bought plants, but it also promotes a thriving garden ecosystem.
Source @dcnatives_gardens
Real-Life Example: I planted a patch of bee balm in my garden, and now my garden is buzzing with pollinators. It’s wonderful to watch, and my plants are thriving!
15. Use Natural Pest Control
Dealing with pests can be frustrating, but I’ve found that chemical pesticides aren’t always necessary. Instead, I use natural pest control methods like neem oil, diatomaceous earth, or homemade insecticidal soap. These options are often cheaper and less harmful to the environment.
Personal Tip: I’ve had great success using a garlic spray to deter aphids. It’s simple to make, and my plants are pest-free without spending a lot of money.
Source @shrubhubofficial
16. Group Plants Based on Their Watering Needs
When I first started gardening, I used to water all my plants the same way. But I quickly realized that some plants need more water than others. By grouping plants with similar water needs together, I can water more efficiently, saving both time and water.
Real-Life Example: I started grouping my succulents in one area and my thirstier plants, like hydrangeas, in another. Now, I only need to water them separately, which makes a huge difference.
Source @baseline_irrigation
17. Repurpose Household Items for Garden Tools
Rather than spending a lot of money on fancy gardening tools, I’ve found that household items work just as well. For instance, old kitchen spoons make great hand trowels, and yogurt containers work perfectly as seedling pots.
Real-Life Example: I use an old butter dish to scoop soil when planting, and I repurpose wine corks as plant markers. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to make use of items I already have.
Source @greenhomecoaustralia
18. Create a Garden Calendar
I’ve found that keeping a garden calendar helps me stay organized and avoid unnecessary costs. I track when to plant, prune, and harvest each plant. This helps me prevent planting mistakes and ensures I’m growing the right plants at the right time.
Personal Tip: I keep a small notebook in my garden shed where I record planting dates, watering schedules, and any changes I make. It’s a great reference for future gardening seasons.
Source @vegega_garden
19. Incorporate Xeriscaping for Water Conservation
If you live in a dry climate like I do, xeriscaping is a smart solution. It involves using drought-tolerant plants that require minimal water. I’ve replaced much of my lawn with native grasses and succulents, which not only look great but also cut down on water bills.
Real-Life Example: I replaced my front lawn with drought-tolerant plants like lavender and yucca. They’re low-maintenance, beautiful, and save me money on my water bill.
Source @brazoswater
20. Grow Your Own Flowers for Bouquets
Instead of buying expensive flowers from the store, I’ve started growing my own for bouquets. Zinnias, sunflowers, and dahlias are easy to grow and provide a stunning array of colors. This saves money and makes my home feel even more personal.
Personal Tip: I’ve had so much fun growing flowers for my kitchen table. Each week, I cut fresh blooms, and it’s a simple way to brighten up the house.
source @rootandbloom_gardens
21. Invest in Quality Tools that Last
While I advocate for DIY and using recycled materials whenever possible, I’ve also learned that investing in a few high-quality tools is worth it in the long run. A sturdy pair of pruning shears, a reliable shovel, and a durable hose can make gardening much easier and save you money on replacements.
Real-Life Example: I splurged on a pair of high-quality gardening gloves and a sharp pruning saw. Both have lasted for years and have made gardening a lot more comfortable.
Source @natasha_morgan_