I used to be terrible at growing anything.
I'm a lot better now, although I'm where I want to be yet.
However, there were a couple of things that I did to increase my confidence dramatically in the beginning and I would like to share that with you here.
So if you feel like you don't have a “green thumb,” that's OK.
Start small with this tutorial and go from there.
What to Start Growing
This is the big question.
In my experience, it's easier to grow plants indoors because you can control the conditions more easily. If you start growing outside, one rainstorm or a super hot day can wipe out all of your work.
Related Tool: Electroculture Stakes for Potted Plants
When I first started, I wanted to grow everything that I could get my hands on.
After a lot of failed starts, I realized that I need to start with the basics and focus.
There are 2 edible plants that I found are easy to grow and can produce food quickly.
Microgreens
The best part about microgreens that you can have an edible harvest in just a few days.
Granted, you won't product a ton of food, but it is a great way to start.
You don't need a lot of supplies and seeds are relatively cheap.
How to Grow Microgreens at Home
Here's what you need to get started:
- Microgreens seeds
- Growing trays (2)
- Soil
- Water spray bottle
First place the soil in the tray and spread it out evenly.
Then sprinkle the seeds generously on top of the soil. Water the soil, then put the other tray on top of the soil to add pressure to the top of the seeds.
Keep the trays in the dark overnight.
In the morning, take the tray off the top and expose the seeds to as much light as possible during the day. If you don't have enough light, use a grow lamp.
Spray the seeds with water once a day until they start to sprout.
Once the greens are about 4 inches tall, cut them with a scissors near the root.
That's it!
To get a more detailed guide on the supplies and steps needed, go here.
Kang Kong (Water Spinach)
This plant is very popular in Southeast Asia.
The scientific name is Ipomoea Aquatica, and as the name suggests, it's a semi-aquatic plant.
It's also known as Chinese Water Spinach and like microgreens, they can grow quickly.
Unlike microgreens however, they can provide a substantial amount of food, so they are perfect if you need to feed a family.
It tastes really good too.
How to Grow Water Spinach at Home
Here's what you need to grow Kang Kong:
- Water Spinach Seeds
- Soil
- Pot
- Plenty of water
Fill the pots with soil, the put the seeds 1 inch (2cm) deep into the soil and give them plenty of water.
Make sure that they get at least 4 hours of sun and you'll start to see them grow quickly.
You can also plant the seeds in the ground outdoors. Just be sure that they get plenty of water.
To get more details about growing and harvesting this fantastic plant, read this guide.
Just a heads up, it's not legal to grow this plant in all areas, so be sure to check before you get started.
Bonus Plant: Basil
Another great plant that's easy to grow is Basil.
There are many different types, including:
- Thai basil
- Lemon basil
- Cinnamon basil
- Purple basil
- Sweet basil
Since this is an herb, you won't get a ton of food out of this plant, but it's always nice to have it around as a fresh seasoning.
Basil grows well in pots and you might find that you have too much of it because it's such a prolific grower.
How to Grow Basil at Home
Here's what you need:
- Basil seeds
- Well draining soil
- Pot
Put some soil in a pot and plant the seeds about 1/2 inch (1cm) below the surface.
Keep the soil moist, but not soaked.
Try your best to give your plants to 8 hours of sun.
It's also fairly easy to grow basil from seed outdoors.
Just be sure that the weather isn't too cold. This is a warm weather plant.
Keep the temperature at about 70°F (21°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night, and your basil will start to grow.
Warmer is better.
Pick the leaves off by hand to harvest. Just be sure not to damage the stalk.
Conclusion
The key to success is to just get started.
These are some of the easiest edible plants to grow, but even if you don't succeed the first time, keep trying.
After a few tries, you'll get the hang of it.
Once you have success with these edible plants, that will give you confidence to try others.
Happy Growing!
