PARTNER CONTENT: How to grow your own edible garden

Many people who grow their own edible plants turn it into a lifetime hobby. It brings a feeling of satisfaction from avoiding supermarkets, and serves as a nod to your own self-sufficiency. We can’t think of a better hobby to take up during lockdown.

From dwarf varieties to fully-fledged alpha greens, plenty of herbs and vegetables can thrive indoors. Whether it’s the dead of winter or the warmth of summer – your edible plants can still grow. A sunny windowsill or two will help if you opt for an inside garden, but you can grow in shaded areas, too. Here are a few tips on how to grow your own, plus which indoor edible plants and vegetables thrive indoors.

Getting started

You’re busy with a million other things right now, so let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. To start a garden, you’ll need to consider the following:

– Choose well-draining soil. Use a pot with holes in the bottom or pile up some stones to let some of the water drain through. Make sure to capture some water under the pot with a shallow drainer or saucer.

– Buy some potting mix. Look for a general potting mix, or go with organic. 

– Place the pot(s) on a sunny windowsill or in a well-lit area. Maximum light is ideal, yet some plants might require different exposure to the sun. Chat to friends who grow their own, or head over to the trusty Google to read more about the different herbs and vegetables.

– Think about indoor temperature, humidity levels and watering. Each plant may differ, so do your research to make sure you buy plants that work with your home’s temperature.

– Use a vegetable garden kit to start with: remember to choose something that complements your home and fits the space.

Choosing your garden varietals

If you’re just starting out, stick with plants, vegetables and herbs that are fairy resilient and grow well in part-shade or full-shade. Once you fine-tune your green thumb, you can be a little more adventurous. 

The world is your oyster when it comes to herbs. Small and compact, you can grow them indoors. Whether you want to grow basil, rosemary, chives, or add a little mint to your immune-boosting smoothie, herbs are packed full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

If you’re after fruits and vegetables, consider adding these to your indoor garden: 

– Avocados

Full of healthy fats, these fruits pack a punch. Purchase a dwarf avocado plant if possible – but be warned, they can grow up to three metres tall. 

 – Carrots

A great source of vitamins and minerals. Purchase carrot seeds plus a window box and you’re good to grow.

– Lemons

Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, you’ll never be left without your citrus friend to fight off colds, flu and clean your palate.

– Mushrooms

Your funky-fungi varietals are a good source of fibre. Grow them in a laundry basket or purchase a kit made for growing your fungi friends.

There you have it! The rare satisfaction that comes from eating what you nurtured, and a confidence-boosting sense of self-sufficiency.  

Combine your healthy eating habits with a good workout routine at your nearest Virgin Active health club: www.virginactive.co.za