Spring will soon be on the way and you’ve probably already been bitten by the bug to clean up your yard and begin planting flowers and veggies. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of all things fresh and new and overspend. However, there are some incredibly simple ways to save money gardening. Check out the following ideas to keep your green garden from going into the red.
Clean Up & Research First
No matter what sort of project you take on, it’s always a good idea to begin with what you have. I’m always so tempted to rush out to the store and snap up everything in sight. However, many times, the items I need already in my possession or my time would be better spent by simply cleaning up and picking up. Don’t speed to spend, instead make the most of what you already have.
Regular Maintenance is Key
Before the first cut of the season, you serve yourself (and your mower) well to have it serviced. Sharpening the blades and tuning the engine will not only guarantee your lawn equipment runs well all season long, but also allows for better fuel efficiency, lowering your overall costs. If you’re not sure where to go, head to your social media channels to ask friends and neighbors where they’ve found great customer service and quality work. Ask about discounts or potential coupons when you schedule your appointment. But don’t skip this essential step. Your lawn and mowers will thank you and have an extended life to boot.
Make Your Own Weed Killer
Did you know that you don’t need heavy chemicals to eliminate weeds? In fact, you can whip up a non-toxic, frugal version for a fraction of the price. Simply combine 1 gallon of white vinegar with 1 cup of table salt (I’ve read some recipes that use epsom salts, instead) and a squeeze of liquid dish soap. I was amazed at how well this worked. You can make a 1/4 batch to test it out. For application use either a weed sprayer or even a spray bottle you can purchase at the dollar store. It takes a day or two for the weeds begin to die but it is very successful at killing weeds.
Save Your Seeds
Year after year, you can use the same little package of seeds. You don’t need all of the seeds in the packet and they can be kept in a sealed jar in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them next season. Sure, they don’t cost much, but you’ll be saved the time and energy of running to the store. Keep it simple and save your seeds.
Make the Most of Mulch
Once you complete your yard basics, you might be ready to add mulch to spruce up your yard. Some municipalities actually take the limbs collected through its removal service and turn it into mulch available to those who live within the city limits. Check out your city’s website for specifics about locations, which months mulch is available for pickup, and the requirements (you’ll probably need a recent sanitation bill to prove residency). This decorative mulch is great to ring trees or enhance landscaping. If you’re looking to improve the health and appearance of your flowers or gardens, consider starting an open-air compost bin to create your own mulch. Simply add vegetable peelings, egg shells, coffee grounds, green clippings from your lawn, dead leaves, and even cardboard and newspaper – the more diverse, the better. Just don’t add any dairy products or meat to the mix. You’ll occasionally want to stir your pile. It may be the end of the season before you see any results; however, the longer you compost, the more you’ll be hooked on using your own trash to create garden treasure.
Spruce Up the Furniture You Own
After the snow and ice of December and January, your outdoor furniture may be long overdue some TLC. Don’t just drag what you own to the curb and buy all new. A little bit of care and spray paint can give those pieces you already have a second life. Begin by scrubbing down everything with a mild detergent and warm water. If plastic pieces have developed a cloudy, dark film, try using a Magic Eraser to remove spots. To revive metal tables and chairs, sand off any rusty spots with sandpaper or an electric sander. Then invest in some spray paint of your favorite color. For a fraction of the price, you create a complete new look, customized to your preference
Keep it Simple
Again, it’s very easy to bite off more than we can chew when it comes to gardening. The plants are so small and seem like they’ll stay that way forever. Right now, the weather is mild and you imagine long summer days of quietly watching your garden grow. However, let me remind you friends, late July is coming. It will be humid. The sun will shine ALL. DAY. LONG. And more than anything, you’ll want to hide in your air conditioned cave home. Don’t let your enthusiasm and the lovely spring cloud your judgment. Keep realistic expectations for what you will and won’t be able to keep up with as the summer wears on and you get a little bit busier than you realize.
Build Your Own Box from Clearance Wood
Raised beds are all the rage. We have more than one box ourselves. However, skip the pricey pre-fab kit and opt to construct your own. Bob Vila doesn’t have to live in your house to make a simple box. Check out the book All New Square Foot Gardening: Grow More in Less Space (see if your library has a copy) for basic instructions. AND, see if your hardware or home improvement store has a clearance wood section (most do) to pick up what you need with steep savings to spare.
Set a Cash Budget & Stick to It
I might sound like a clanging cymbal, but you must, must, must set a cash budget when it comes to landscaping (and every other category of your finances). It’s simply too easy to overspend in the springtime on flowers, mulch, yard ornaments, and more. As our hearts yearn for warmer weather, we want everything on display. From a new gas grill to a cute little gnome, from beautiful daisies to fresh herbs – there are so many wonderful “things” you can purchase. But let’s fact it, you can’t afford it all. So set a cash budget before you leave your yard and commit to sticking to it no matter what you might see.
My favorite time of the year has almost arrived – mowing season. Your yard can be the envy of the block without emptying your piggy bank. Make the most of what you have, adding a few tweaks and your lawn will shine.
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