Categories: Quick Tips

Go Small! Friday Quickie

Have you procrastinated planting your seedlings for your spring and summer garden?

If you’re looking for some easy shortcuts, check out some starter plants. Don’t run to Home Depot or Lowe’s – think small and support local farmers.

You’ll pump money back into the local economy, minimize the risk of pesticides (or god-forbid!) GMO crops. Although the GMO seeds are unlikely, there’s a chance of cross-pollination that may tempt you to make that switch to organic seeds & starter plants. Plus, you can ask the farmers any questions you may have about growing plants, container garden techniques or other essential questions like “What’s the difference between these 13 tomato varieties?!?”

“How can I find a farmer in the city?”, you may ask.

Many local farmers markets currently sell starter plants. Or, if you’re venturing to the ‘burbs, keep your eyes peeled for little signs.

Bonus story! With Photos!

As I was leaving the dentist in the suburbs, I stumbled across a private farm selling starter plants in my hometown. Looks cute and approachable, right?

Although the sign said it was open, there was no one in sight. Instead, they had a little “honor box” where you could slip your payment.

Being honorable, I made sure to give the appropriate amount for 6 plants: $15! (It was 5/$10, but I also felt like a big spender and bought a little plant for $5 itself. It came with a sweet little basket!)

Starter Plants Booty

Since I started some of my herbs (namely, the important Herb groups: basil, cilantro, thai basil & parsley…), I completed my collection with some lavender, dill & a few flower/plants to build some window decorations.

Next, to Etsy, Pinterest & DIY-ville I go!

Readers, what are you planting in your urban (and sub-urban) gardens?

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Share
Published by
Julie Hancher

Recent Posts

Open Streets helps businesses, Transit in the City Budget & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  Center City car-free streets increased sales for local…

7 days ago

d’griot Cafe Brings Sustainable Food and Community Space to Germantown

The Black-owned cafe in Maplewood Mall centers sustainable food, local vendors and community programming, all…

1 week ago

Lobbying polluters, SEPTA funding boost, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  Farm Philly expands Community Compost Network. Farm Philly’s…

2 weeks ago

From mapping to air bubbles: How local researchers are tackling PFAS in Philly’s water

"Forever chemicals” are in Philly's waterways. Research teams are tracking contamination and testing new ways…

2 weeks ago

New Trail crew, Fight for Zero Fare, Dreadging threatens fish, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  City to launch first-ever trail maintenance crew. Philadelphia…

3 weeks ago

Philly Fixers Guild: Meet the Philadelphians building community through repair

Sick of your stuff breaking? Once a month, this volunteer-led organization helps community members repair…

3 weeks ago