In 2020, my awareness of the environment grew when the pandemic forced us to stay home. I've always appreciated nature, but during this time, I decided to spend more time in my garden and learn how to take care of it.
Searching the web for tips on caring for my herbs, flowers, and produce became my go-to. It's genuinely fascinating to grow food in your backyard; I've grown potatoes, carrots, peppers, tomatoes, and many herbs. However, it can be disheartening when you're unsure how much water plants need or if they're getting too much or too little. While the internet is educational, it's challenging to determine the right amount of sun, water, and fertilizer for each plant, as it varies depending on your area. Buying all the recommended products for a flourishing garden can also be expensive.
One term that caught me off guard was "tea" for plants. I couldn't find where to buy it when I realized I could make my plant tea. It's a simple process of collecting peels and scraps in a designated pot or bucket, adding water, and letting it sit for a week or two. The resulting juice can then be used for your plants, while the leftover produce can be used to start your compost. It is the best liquid fertilizer there is. You can also look for many composting ideas, and my husband surprised me with a compost bin, which has been another learning experience.
I was excited and disappointed during my first year with the compost bin. It took longer than I expected for the scraps to decompose. But then, I realized my mistake. To create a compelling compost mix, add an equal amount of scraps, dry leaves (or cardboard), and greens (like grass). I asked our yardman to save our grass clippings, which he now leaves next to my compost bin. As for cardboard, the packaging from our online orders is a great addition. Once I add equal parts scraps, grass, and browns, I water the bin and shake it to mix everything. It's a bit of work, as you have to mix it daily, but a wet compost bin helps materials decompose. This process takes 30 to 60 days, depending on the scrap amount. It's rewarding because I know I'm contributing to my city by reducing food waste and minimizing the need for processed fertilizers, which also means fewer chemicals on my plants.
Many helpful videos on the web teach you how to reuse containers and start a garden with heirloom seeds. I encourage you to try it; you won't regret it.