Planting the Seed

New at the gardening game? Held back by memories of failed veggie patches past? Author and organic gardening teacher Emily Murphy weighs in on what you’ll need to turn your black thumb green.

Planning Your Garden Try to recycle. If you have a container that holds soil and allows for drainage, you’ve got yourself a garden. A mint tin, an old washtub, a basket, a trash can or a wine box can all be transformed into homes for plants—just add drain holes to the sides and bottom and fill it with soil.

Find the right spot. If you have a flood of light coming in through south-facing windows, or an entryway with plenty of sun and room for both a path and plants, you’re in business. Setting up an indoor space with supplemental light is also an option. Rooftops, decks and balconies are great places to begin, too. Use walls, fences and hanging gardens to optimize finite space. If your home has limited access to the outdoors, your best bet may be to find a community garden or share the yard of a neighbour.