16 Urban gardening trends that don’t Work

Urban gardening has become increasingly popular over the past couple of years. People have started to appreciate the importance of green spaces in their homes, especially in the city landscapes, where space is at a premium. However, not all trends that have emerged in urban gardening are as effective as they may seem. In fact, some might even be detrimental to the overall health and productivity of your garden.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 16 urban gardening trends that, despite their popularity, just don’t work.

1. Vertical Gardening without considering the plant’s needs

Vertical gardening is a great way to maximize space, but not all plants are suitable for this method. Some plants have specific needs when it comes to sunlight, water, and nutrients, which can be difficult to meet when they are planted vertically.

For example, tomatoes are a popular choice for vertical gardens, but they require a lot of sunlight and space to grow properly. If they are planted too closely together in a vertical setup, they may not get the amount of sunlight they need, which can affect their growth and productivity. A better approach would be to carefully consider the needs of each plant before deciding on a vertical setup.

2. Overusing Fertilizers

Over-fertilization is a common mistake made by urban gardeners. While it’s true that plants need nutrients to grow, too much of a good thing can be harmful.

Excessive fertilizers can lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil, which can prevent plants from absorbing the nutrients they need. It can also cause salt buildup, which can damage plant roots. Rather than indiscriminately applying fertilizers, it’s better to have your soil tested to determine what nutrients it lacks and then apply the appropriate type and amount of fertilizer.

3. Relying solely on Potted Plants

While potted plants can be a great addition to an urban garden, relying solely on them can limit the variety of plants you can grow. Many plants, such as root vegetables, need more space to grow than a pot can provide.

Moreover, potted plants require more frequent watering and feeding than those planted in the ground, as nutrients can quickly leach out of the pot. Instead of only using pots, consider incorporating raised beds or in-ground planting areas into your urban garden.

4. Ignoring the Importance of Composting

Composting is often overlooked in urban gardening, but it’s an essential component of a healthy garden. Compost helps improve soil structure, retain moisture, and provide nutrients to plants.

Unfortunately, many urban gardeners skip composting because they believe they don’t have enough space or that it will attract pests. However, composting can be done even in small spaces using worm composting or bokashi methods, and it’s an excellent way to recycle kitchen scraps into rich, nutrient-filled compost for your garden.

5. Overwatering Plants

Overwatering is a common mistake in urban gardening. City dwellers, often busy and time-crunched, may water their plants too frequently or too much, thinking that more is better. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, a condition that can kill plants.

To avoid overwatering, it’s essential to understand the water needs of your plants. Some plants, like succulents, prefer dry conditions, while others, like ferns, require a more moist environment. Always check the soil before watering – if it’s still damp from the last watering, your plant probably doesn’t need more water.

6. Ignoring Local Climate and Conditions

Many urban gardeners fail to consider their local climate and conditions when selecting plants. A plant that thrives in a warm, sunny climate may struggle in a cooler, cloudier city.

Before choosing plants for your urban garden, research the types of plants that will do well in your specific location. Consider factors like sunlight, temperature, and rainfall. Native plants are often a good choice because they’re adapted to the local conditions and require less maintenance.

7. Neglecting Pest Control

Pests can wreak havoc on an urban garden. From aphids to rodents, pests can damage or even kill your plants.

Unfortunately, many urban gardeners neglect pest control, either because they don’t notice the problem until it’s too late, or they’re unsure of how to deal with it. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and deal with any infestations promptly. Using natural pest control methods, like introducing beneficial insects or using homemade sprays, can help keep your urban garden healthy.

8. Planting Invasive Species

Invasive species can outcompete native plants, damaging local ecosystems. Some urban gardeners may unintentionally plant invasive species, thinking they’re merely adding variety to their garden.

Before you plant anything, research whether it’s considered invasive in your area. If it is, consider choosing a different plant. Native plants are often a good choice because they’re adapted to the local conditions and unlikely to become invasive.

9. Forgetting to Prune

Pruning helps keep plants healthy and productive, but many urban gardeners neglect this important task. Whether it’s because they’re unsure how to do it or they’re afraid of harming the plant, the result is often the same: overgrown, unhealthy plants.

Learn how and when to prune the plants in your garden. Most plants benefit from regular pruning, which can improve their shape, stimulate growth, and help prevent disease.

10. Overcrowding Plants

In the desire to grow as much as possible, many urban gardeners plant their crops too close together. This can lead to competition for sunlight, water, and nutrients, resulting in weaker, less productive plants.

Always follow the recommended spacing guidelines when planting. This will allow your plants to grow to their full potential and reduce the risk of disease spreading from one plant to another.

11. Neglecting Pollinators

Pollinators play a crucial role in a garden’s success, but they’re often overlooked in urban gardening. Without pollinators like bees and butterflies, many plants can’t produce fruit or seeds.

To attract pollinators to your garden, plant a variety of flowering plants, provide a source of water, and avoid using harmful pesticides that can harm these beneficial insects.

12. Choosing Only Exotic Plants

While exotic plants can add interest and variety to your garden, relying solely on them can be a mistake. Exotic plants often require more care and aren’t as resilient as native plants.

Instead of only planting exotic species, consider including a mix of native plants as well. These plants are adapted to your local conditions and can add beauty and diversity to your urban garden.

13. Ignoring Soil Health

Soil health is fundamental to a successful garden, but it’s often overlooked in urban gardening. Poor soil can lead to weak, unproductive plants.

Before planting anything, test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Then, amend it as necessary with compost, organic matter, or other soil amendments. This will help ensure your plants have the nutrients they need to thrive.

14. Forgetting to Mulch

Mulch helps conserve water, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Despite these benefits, many urban gardeners forget to mulch their gardens.

Using organic mulches like straw, leaves, or compost can help improve your soil’s health while keeping your plants happy. Just be sure to keep mulch away from plant stems to prevent rot.

15. Planting at the Wrong Time

Planting at the wrong time can lead to poor plant health and low yields. Many urban gardeners, eager to start their gardens, plant too early in the spring or late in the fall.

Knowing when to plant is crucial. Research the best planting times for each type of plant in your garden and aim to get your plants in the ground at the right time.

16. Ignoring Plant Compatibility

Certain plants grow well together, while others do not. Ignoring plant compatibility can lead to competition for resources and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Before planting your garden, research which plants are compatible and which are not. By carefully planning your garden, you can ensure that all your plants have the space and resources they need to thrive.