Spring has officially arrived in Indiana! It’s safe to say we all welcome the warmer weather, sunshine, and beauty that comes with the season. For many, spring is when they start to prepare for a garden. Whether you have a large yard to accommodate a garden bed, or live in an apartment without any personal yard space, below are a few tips for growing your own food.
- Know your zone! – Marion County is located in zone 5. The University of Vermont has a helpful chart that can help you determine the right time to plant various crops.
- Utilize Seed Libraries – Many libraries including IUPUI and the Indianapolis Public Library (IPL) offer seeds and planting resources for free. IUPUI’s seeds will be available in May or June and IPL’s seeds are available now.
- Plant natives to attract bees and butterflies – There are many benefits of planting natives such as milkweed in or near your garden. They bring beauty, require little maintenance, and attract the pollinators you want near your garden! For more information on native plants to Marion County visit Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District.
- Small space gardens – If you do not have a yard, there are still plenty of options for growing your own food. Try window ledge herb gardens, salad greens, microgreens, or even tomatoes if you have a deep enough pot. Shopping at second hand stores for containers is a great way to create your indoor garden in a sustainable way! Check out this Apartment Guide Blog for some great tips.
- Community gardens – Utilizing a community garden space is a great way to grow your own food without the hassle of digging up your yard. Many communities offer public garden plots you can reserve each season and plant whatever you would like. They usually have a seasonal fee associated, but they provide things such as water and good soil so it’s well worth the cost! A quick Google search for community gardens in your community should provide you with some options. Residents of Indianapolis can contact sustainindy@indy.gov to see if there is a garden near you.
The Green Staffer is a seasonal column brought to you by the Staff Council’s Sustainability Committee, and is dedicated to sharing tips to help you reduce your carbon footprint in your work at IUPUI, whether you are on campus or working from home.
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