Have we become a lock-up-and-go society?
Looking at the trends in urban development and building, it does look like it, does it not? And the pandemic is contributing to this, too. It encourages us to get out of the house whenever there is an opportunity.
We want to get out into nature, feel and smell the trees and the earth, walk on small footpaths and cross shallow rivers and streams.
The fact is, it is important for we humans to connect with nature. We can, if we so choose, bring nature into our lock-up-and-go lifestyles through small indoor and outdoor container gardens that will nourish our souls and stimulate our senses.
It is easy, and in this short piece, we will provide some motivation to get you started.
Indoor or outdoor
There’s a Chinese proverb that says “Life begins the day you start a garden – it teaches, among other things, trust”. Growing plants indoor offers a myriad of benefits – it reduces stress, cleans the air and adds beauty.
Your initial decision will probably be driven by the available space or lack thereof. Things to consider before even choosing your plants, are available direct or indirect light, the room temperature and the size of the plants. Once you have evaluated this, seek the advice of a qualified and trusted nursery on the plants suited to the conditions in your house.
Whether indoor or outdoor – start small. Do your homework, ensure that you do not overwater your plants, and clean the leaves regularly.
Growing microgreens – which are packed with vitamins and minerals, even more so compared with fully grown veggies – require little space and can be started by buying a small kit from nursery suppliers.
A veggie garden in your kitchen or small veranda, or even just on a shelf on the wall…
Wow – now there is a truly rewarding way to bring nature into your lock-up-and-go space!
