The Cheapest Way to Garden

To some, gardening may seem like an expensive waste of time. However, this is only true based on the decisions you make. If you wish to have a non-organic garden, the cost will most likely be expensive. But, if you wish to have an organic garden, the cost is more affordable.
Here are some ways to make your garden a productive, but inexpensive one:

• Reuse rain water! If you live in a climate where you get rain at least once a day, don't bother about hooking up with a sprinkler system. But if you live in a drier climate, it is advised that you hook up with a sprinkler system and reuse rain water when it's possible.
• Save and use your own compost. Kitchen scraps, and things found in nature are the best composts, instead of purchasing manure at a local nursery. Manure is a very helpful complement, but if you would like a more affordable garden, natural compost is the way to go.
• Fencing--If you have pests such as deer, rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, etc. that get into your garden, the most affordable way to get rid of them is the natural way. Fencing really depens on what kind of animals are trampling, eating and otherwise destroying your garden. If you have deer problems, you want the fence to be high enough so the deer can't jump over it. For rabbits, it needs to be made with small enough holes (like chicken mesh) so they can't squeeze through it. And for raccoons, it needs to be strong enough so they can't bite through it. Electric fences are thin, and a great way to keep plants in and animals out. But they are not recommended if you have children, dogs or cats.
• Plants-- if you have rabbit problems, plant a row of lavender, thyme, marigold, onion, chives or garlic around your other plants. Catnip is a plant that many animals do not bother with. But do not plant this if you have a lot of cats in your area... or you might have a new pest problem to take care of.