Garden Tips That Save Time and Money, Experts Say

Horticulture experts say gardeners can cut costs and reduce work by starting plants from seed, making or sourcing compost, using soaker hoses, and propagating divisions and cuttings instead of buying new plants each year.

Many home gardeners spend season after season on items and habits that add cost and extra work. Extension horticulturalists and experienced growers point out that a few practical changes—like starting seeds, composting, and using passive irrigation—can reduce both expense and time. For many gardeners, especially those with several seasons of experience, shifting habits pays back over multiple years. The advice summarized below comes from university extension programs and practicing horticulturalists. What experts recommend: - Start plants from seed where feasible; a packet of seed can produce far more plants for far less cost than buying nursery transplants. - Make or source compost and use techniques such as hugelkultur and municipal wood-chip programs to lower or avoid buying bagged compost and mulch. - Rely less on synthetic fertilizer when adequate compost is applied; extension specialists note that a thin annual layer of compost can meet many vegetable garden needs. - Skip costly framed raised beds when not required; mounded soil or repurposed materials can provide similar drainage and rooting depth at lower cost. - Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation instead of hand-watering; experts report this improves water delivery to roots and is associated with notable reductions in water use. - Obtain plants through division, cuttings, and seed saving, and favor perennials or self-seeding annuals to reduce yearly plant purchases. Summary: Adopting these practices can lower recurring garden expenses and reduce routine maintenance time, with several strategies continuing to yield benefits across seasons. Undetermined at this time.