Have you been to your local Dollar Tree lately? If so, have you checked out their gardening supplies? If not, then you’re missing out. Dollar Tree gardening supplies are inexpensive and yet work just as well as pricier options that you might be elsewhere. You can get gardening basics like seeds, of course. You can also get some gardening tools. Don’t stop there, though. Get creative and use everything from twine to popsicle sticks to work in your garden and make it more beautiful.

A Few Key Notes on Dollar Tree Gardening Supplies

You can get some of the below items as single purchases at your local Dollar Tree. Others are only available online. Those typically require a minimum purchase. You could buy in bulk for things you’ll use. Alternatively, perhaps you can split purchases up with other gardeners so that you all get what you need at the lowest price.

Garden Basics from Dollar Tree

A lot of Dollar Tree gardening supplies will help you with the basics of gardening. These include:

• Seeds: You can get a variety of different seeds to start or grow your garden. You can get individual seed packets. Alternatively, boxes of seed mixture. Look for the American Seed brand, for example.
• Seed Pots: Want to start your seeds in pots? You can get seed starter pots at Dollar Tree as well. A ten-count pack of American Seed Lawn & Garden Natural Fiber Seed Starter Pots costs $1.25 online. They have small seed starter greenhouses as well.
• Fertilizer. You might be able to find fertilizer spikes at your local Dollar Tree. If not, Dollar Tree online has them.

Note that you typically can’t get soil at Dollar Tree. That’s one of the basics you’ll have to look for elsewhere, unfortunately.

Dollar Tree Garden Tools

There are so many great tools that make gardening easier. Can you get them inexpensively at your local Dollar Tree? You bet you can! Check Dollar Tree online for different options.

• Gardening Gloves. Dollar Tree offers a surprising array of different gardening gloves. Fleece, jersey, and nitrile-coated fabric gardening gloves are among the options. They come in many cute colors and patterns.
• Watering Pails. Dollar Tree sells plastic watering pails. You can also purchase plastic watering stakes and self-watering plastic pots.
• Trowels, Small Shovels, Cultivators, Pruning Shears. These are some of the simple but necessary garden tools that you can get at Dollar Tree.
• Kneeling Pads. You don’t need fancy need pads to keep your knees safe in the garden. Instead, get affordable kneeling pads. You can lay these down anywhere you need to work in the garden, kneel on them, and move along.

Garden Decor from Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree has a range of outdoor decorations that you can utilize in your garden. Some of the things that you might want to look for include:

• Pots and Planters. Whether you want them for indoors or outdoors, you can add small pots to your garden at a low cost. Dollar Tree has stackable plastic and ceramic pots as well as metal planters.
• Baskets. When it comes time to collect the fruits and vegetables for your garden, use a lovely basket that you bought at Dollar Tree to help you with your harvest. You can also use baskets as decor in a garden. Keep an eye out for hanging baskets, too.
• Solar Lanterns. Add light to your garden with affordable solar lanterns from Dollar Tree. You can get them for $5 at Dollar Tree online, minimum purchase of 8. They also have solar stake lights in varied designs although the minimum purchase online is higher.
• Bird Feeders. For example, purchase an inexpensive hummingbird feeder to bring new life to your garden.
• Garden Stakes. You’ll find a wide variety of different decorative garden stakes to choose from.
• Plastic Plant Labels. Use these to mark which seeds you’ve planted so that you don’t forget.
• Decorative Ceramics. Look all around the store as there are a variety of these in different locations. Create little scenes to add some whimsy to your garden.
• Decorative Garden Stones. These come with a variety of inspirational sayings that will spruce up your garden.

Miscellaneous Dollar Tree Gardening Supplies

Some of the other items that you might want to get at Dollar Tree aren’t specifically for gardening but are great for DIY gardening. Explore the different materials that you might use to create what you want in your garden. create a Pinterest board. Then look for the supplies that you need at Dollar Tree. Examples include:

• Twine. There are dozens of ways to use twine in the garden.
• Nautical Rope. You can also use this in varied ways from creating a rope fence to making your own macrame plant hangers.
• Weed Barrier: Dollar Tree offers 4×8 sheets of fabric for $1. Use them to create weed barriers in your garden.
• Wire Wreath Forms. Use these to guide some of your plants into interesting shapes.
• Spray Bottles. Use these for misting plants, spraying pesticides, etc.
• Dixie Cups: These are perfect alternatives to seed starting pots.
• Popsicle Sticks. Many people like to use popsicle sticks as DIY plant markers. You can get them at Dollar Tree. Do note, however, that there’s some controversy around this because they tend to mold quickly.
• Citronella Incense / Candles. Keep the bugs away when you’re sitting out in your garden.
• Dishes. Get an assortment of small dishes for varied use around the garden. They can become decorative plant saucers, colorful mosaic stepping stones, or charming bird baths.
• Small Tables. Place pots on small stackable tables in your garden. They’re available at a low price over at Dollar Tree.

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• 14 Essential Gardening Products Under $10 at Amazon

Seed-saving is the practice of intentionally collecting and preserving seeds from plants grown in a garden or farm for future planting and propagation. It involves deliberately selecting, harvesting, and storing seeds from mature, healthy plants to ensure the continuation of specific plant varieties.

Why Care About Seed-Saving?

Seed saving holds immense significance in the realm of agriculture and sustainable gardening practices. At its core, it serves as a crucial mechanism for preserving genetic diversity within plant species. By intentionally collecting and safeguarding seeds from various plants, individuals contribute to the conservation of diverse plant varieties that might otherwise fade into obscurity. This genetic diversity acts as a reservoir of resilience, ensuring that different plants possess the genetic traits needed to adapt to changing environmental conditions, pests, and diseases. In fact, without seed saving, many unique plant varieties, each with its distinct attributes and adaptability, could be lost over time, diminishing the richness of our agricultural landscape.

By cultivating a habit of seed saving, gardeners and farmers maintain control over their food sources. They reduce dependency on commercially produced seeds, which might not always align with local climates or evolving environmental conditions. Through seed saving, individuals can consistently grow crops that are well-suited to their specific region, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable food supply. This self-reliance fosters a sense of empowerment and resilience, particularly in the face of uncertainties like climate change or disruptions in supply chains.

Learn a Little About Seed-Saving

Seed-Saving Techniques

There are many different techniques that you can use, and they vary depending on the types of plants you’re collecting seeds for/from. Here are some that you’ll want to master:

Dry Method

The drying method of seed saving is a straightforward technique suitable for a wide range of seeds. It’s particularly useful for those plants with dry seed pods, husks, or that are found within the fruit. It’s effective for seeds like beans, peas, lettuce, cilantro, and many flower seeds.

Process:

1. Harvesting: Allow the seeds to fully mature on the plant. For example, with beans or peas, leave the pods until they begin to dry and rattle.
2. Extraction: Collect the seeds by removing them from the pods or seed heads. This is often done by hand or by gently breaking open dried seed pods.
3. Cleaning: Remove any remaining plant debris or chaff from the seeds. A simple winnowing process or gently blowing air can help separate seeds from chaff.
4. Drying: Spread the seeds out in a single layer on a screen, paper towel, or a tray in a well-ventilated area. Ensure good airflow to aid in the drying process. Additionally, avoid direct sunlight or high humidity.
5. Checking for Dryness: Seeds should be completely dry before storage. Test by pressing seeds with your fingernail; properly dried seeds will not dent or show moisture.
6. Storage: Once dry, store seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Label the containers with seed type and the date of collection.

Fermentation Method

The fermentation method of seed saving is particularly effective for seeds that are encased in a gel-like substance, commonly found in fruits like tomatoes, cucumbers, okra, and some peppers. This technique helps to remove this gel coating, which can inhibit germination if not removed.

Process:

1. Harvesting Ripe Fruit: Select fully ripe fruits from which you plan to collect seeds. Cut open the fruit and scoop out the seeds along with the surrounding pulp into a container.
2. Fermentation: Add water to the container to create a slurry with the seeds and pulp. Allow this mixture to ferment for a few days (typically 2-4 days) at room temperature. Stir the mixture once or twice a day.
3. Fermentation Process: During fermentation, the pulp around the seeds breaks down and separates from the seeds, and beneficial microbes help to remove germination inhibitors from the seed coat.
4. Rinsing and Drying: After fermentation, add water to the container and stir; viable seeds will sink to the bottom, while debris and non-viable seeds will float. Carefully pour off the floating material, then rinse the seeds thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining pulp.
5. Drying: Spread the cleaned seeds in a single layer on a paper towel or screen to dry thoroughly. Ensure good airflow to prevent mold or mildew. Once completely dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place.

Additional Methods of Seed-Saving

The two methods above are commonly used. They’re a great place to start with seed-saving. Here are some additional techniques that you might want to master as well:

Wet Processing Techniques

Fermentation is one of these. However, there are also others:

• Winnowing is a seed-saving technique primarily used for seeds that have chaff, husks, or lightweight debris attached to them. Use it for amaranth, quinoa, or other grains with hulls. It involves gently pouring harvested seeds and chaff from one container to another in a gentle breeze or using a fan to separate the heavier seeds from the lighter debris.
• Wet Sieving. Seeds are placed in water and agitated to separate them from the surrounding pulp. Then they are sieved to remove debris. Plants like tomatoes, kiwi, guava, and squash, where seeds are enclosed in pulp or surrounded by gel-like substances, benefit from wet sieving.
• Washing and soaking directly uses water to remove debris or pulp from seeds. Lettuce, radishes, and flowers with easily removable chaff or debris from seed heads benefit from washing and soaking.

Cold Storage

Direct Planting

Direct planting as a seed-saving technique involves sowing seeds directly into the soil where they’ll grow, mature, and naturally disperse or be collected for future use. This method is particularly effective for self-seeding annuals and biennials such as calendula, poppies, or some herbs like cilantro. Additionally, certain vegetables like lettuce, radishes, and carrots can be directly sown, allowing them to bolt and produce seeds that are left in the soil for natural harvesting.

Natural Harvest and Winter Storage

Similarly, natural harvest involves allowing plants to naturally disperse seeds or keeping seeds within fruits or pods until they are ready to be collected. Winter storage, in this context, refers to leaving seeds in the ground over winter, where they undergo natural cold conditions. Plants like biennials (carrots, parsley), some perennials (echinacea, black-eyed Susans), and wildflowers (milkweeds, asters) are suitable for natural harvest and winter storage, allowing seeds to disperse or remain in pods on the plant through winter for collection.

Vigilant Harvesting

Vigilant harvesting refers to regularly checking plants for mature seeds and promptly collecting them to prevent pods from shattering and seeds scattering. This method is advantageous for plants like beans, peas, or annual flowers such as marigolds or zinnias, where seeds mature in pods or seed heads. Timely and frequent harvesting ensures the collection of seeds at optimal maturity, maximizing seed viability and preventing loss due to dispersal.

Hand Selection

Hand selection involves manually choosing the best-looking, healthiest seeds from plants for saving, ensuring better-quality seeds for future planting. This method is suitable for various plants, especially those producing large seeds like pumpkins, squash, or sunflowers, as well as tomatoes or peppers. By selecting seeds with desirable traits—such as size, color, or disease resistance—gardeners ensure the propagation of strong, high-quality plants in subsequent generations, contributing to better yields and healthier crops.

Read More:

• 5 Easy and Neat Seed Storage Ideas
• Starting Seeds Inside: The Basic Guide
• How to Get Free Seeds from the Government

Recently I’ve been sharing with you some of the garden designs that I would like to learn more about. This week, I want to talk a bit about Italian Renaissance Gardens. I’ve researched a little bit of their history and their design style. Additionally, I have thought about ways to incorporate elements of that design style into any garden on a frugal budget.

History of Italian Renaissance Gardens

During the Italian Renaissance, gardens underwent a profound transformation influenced by humanist ideals and a revived interest in the classical world. This period, spanning roughly from the 14th to the 17th century, marked a significant shift in garden design and landscaping principles.

Humanism and Garden Philosophy

Humanism, a cultural movement that celebrated human potential and knowledge, greatly influenced the design ethos of Renaissance gardens. Gardens became extensions of the household, reflecting the owner’s status, wealth, and appreciation for aesthetics.

Evolution from Medieval Gardens

Italian Renaissance gardens departed from the enclosed, utilitarian spaces of medieval times. They embraced open spaces, symmetry, and a sense of unity between architecture, nature, and art.

Influences from Antiquity

The revival of classical antiquity played a pivotal role in shaping these gardens. Artists and architects drew inspiration from Roman and Greek texts, sculptures, and architecture, incorporating elements like statues, columns, and axial designs.

3 Key Garden Types in Italian Renaissance Gardens

Italian Renaissance gardens encompassed various types, each serving distinct purposes and reflecting different aspects of life and culture during that time. Three common types were:

1. Villa Gardens

Affluent families, nobles, or patrons of the arts owned these types of gardens. As a result, the garden design complemented the elegance and leisure associated with these estates. They served as spaces for entertainment, relaxation, and the display of wealth.

Often expansive, villa gardens featured intricate layouts with geometric designs, water features like fountains or pools, statuary, shaded walkways, and areas for outdoor gatherings and performances. Symmetry and axial planning were prevalent, with meticulously planned vistas leading the eye to focal points such as statues or architectural elements.

2. Sacred or Monastic Gardens

Within the confines of monasteries or religious institutions, sacred gardens were cultivated for practical and spiritual purposes. These gardens combined horticulture with symbolism and were often used for medicinal herbs and contemplation.

Sacred gardens were spaces for monks or nuns to cultivate medicinal plants, reflecting a connection between spirituality and nature. They served as places for quiet contemplation and prayer. These gardens were known for their diverse array of plants, often emphasizing medicinal herbs and plants mentioned in ancient texts.

3. Urban or Courtyard Gardens

Smaller in scale, urban gardens were found within city dwellings or smaller residences. Despite their size, they encapsulated the Renaissance spirit in miniature, showcasing artistic elements and providing a retreat within bustling urban settings.

Urban gardens featured fountains, sculptures, ornamental plantings, and sometimes small arbors or trellises. They aimed to create a serene and beautiful space within limited confines. Often used for leisure, contemplation, or as extensions of the household, these gardens were places of respite within the cityscape.

Common Italian Renaissance Garden Design Features

Although there were different styles of Italian Renaissance Gardens, they shared many design features including:

Symmetry and Axial Layouts

Italian Renaissance Gardens were often laid out in symmetrical patterns, creating a sense of balance and harmony. Symmetry was achieved through carefully aligned pathways, planting beds, and architectural elements. Gardens were often structured along a central axis, providing a clear view from one end to the other. This axial arrangement drew the eye toward focal points like statues, fountains, or architectural features.

Water Features

Water played a symbolic and practical role. Elaborate fountains, reflecting pools, and water channels were integral. Water symbolized purity and life, and its presence added visual appeal and a soothing ambiance.

Sculptures and Architectural Ornaments:

Marble statues and sculptural elements, inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art, adorned the gardens. These sculptures often depicted mythological figures or renowned personalities. Gardens incorporated architectural features such as columns, pavilions, or arches, adding a sense of grandeur and creating focal points within the landscape.

Diverse Greenery

Renaissance gardens showcased a rich variety of plants. They have fragrant herbs like rosemary, lavender, and thyme for both their aromatic qualities and medicinal uses. They also have fruit-bearing trees such as citrus, figs, and pomegranates to add color and provide fresh produce. Vibrant flowers like roses, lilies, irises, and tulips were arranged in geometric beds, contributing to the gardens’ visual splendor and symbolizing beauty and refinement.

Terracing and Perspective:

In some instances, these gardens incorporate terraces and multiple levels. These terraces enhanced views and incorporated the surrounding scenery into the garden’s design, providing perspectives from various levels.

Tips for Frugal Ideas for Incorporating Features of Italian Renaissance Gardens

Want to recreate some of the opulence of Italian Renaissance Gardens on a smaller budget? Here are some ideas:

• Symmetry and Axial Layouts: Use ropes, stakes, or string to plan and create symmetrical pathways or planting beds without expensive materials or tools.
• DIY Water Features: Repurpose containers or use affordable pre-formed liners to create small-scale water features like birdbaths or miniature fountains.
• Sculptures and Ornaments: Utilize thrift stores, DIY techniques, or recycled materials to craft sculptures or ornaments resembling classical statues for an artistic touch.
• Greenery and Plantings: Choose budget-friendly yet visually appealing plants like perennial flowers, herbs, or fast-growing shrubs from local nurseries or seed swaps.
• Terracing Illusion: Create the illusion of terraces with strategic plantings or raised beds, giving a multi-level appearance without actual construction.
• Reflective Surfaces on a Budget: Install inexpensive mirrors or mirrored tiles strategically to mimic the reflective surfaces found in Renaissance gardens.
• Architectural Elegance with Budget Materials: Use affordable materials such as bamboo, wood, or PVC pipes to create arches, pergolas, or trellises.
• Classical-inspired Elements: Repurpose old columns, pillars, or architectural salvages as focal points or decorative elements in the garden design.
• Simple Geometric Plantings: Arrange low-cost annual flowers or inexpensive perennials in geometric patterns or beds to evoke the geometric planting style of Renaissance gardens.
• Fruit Trees and Fragrant Herbs: Incorporate budget-friendly fruit trees or aromatic herbs like rosemary and lavender in your garden for both visual appeal and functionality.

Read More:

• Frugal Inspiration from Mughal Gardens
• Zen Gardens on a Budget
• Greek Gardening Style on the Cheap

Mulching is a key part of gardening. Mulching offers soil improvement which makes everything in your garden grow better. It is also one of the most versatile and cost-effective solutions for curbing weed growth in a garden. This guide explores the significance of mulching, its broader benefits, and various low-cost mulching options for reaping the benefits without adding expenses.

Why Mulching Matters for Weed Control and Soil Health

There are many different reasons to utilize low-cost mulching in your garden. The two key benefits are weed control and soil health.

Low-Cost Mulching for Weed Control

Mulching serves as a formidable defense against weeds by creating a physical barrier that suppresses weed growth. Mulch smothers weed seeds. Moreover, it hinders the weeds and their seeds from access to light. Therefore, mulch effectively reduces the emergence and proliferation of weeds. This minimizes the need for constant manual weeding. Additionally, it reduces any need for more costly forms of weed control.

Low-Cost Mulching for Soil Health

Mulch also acts as a protective layer over the soil. It shields the soil from erosion caused by wind or water. It regulates soil temperature, preserving moisture levels by reducing evaporation and preventing soil compaction. Over time, organic mulches break down, enriching the soil with essential nutrients and improving its structure. It is one of the best things that you can do to improve the health of your garden overall. And it doesn’t have to cost much.

Other Benefits of Mulching

These two benefits are key to why you want to consider low-cost mulching. However, there are other benefits of mulching as well.

• Enhancement of biodiversity by supporting diverse soil microorganisms
• Reduced need for frequent watering
• Improvement of nutrient availability as organic mulches decompose
• Prevention of soil splash, keeping plants clean and disease-free
• Aesthetic enhancement by providing a neat appearance to garden beds
• Protection of delicate plant roots from extreme temperature fluctuations
• Creation of a natural habitat for beneficial insects and organisms
• Sound insulation by reducing noise levels in urban or noisy environments
• Prevention of fruit and vegetable spoilage by keeping produce off the ground
• Prevention of erosion on slopes and hillsides, preserving the landscape
• Encouragement of earthworm activity
• Reduction in the spread of certain plant diseases by maintaining soil hygiene

Low-Cost Mulching Options for Weed Control and Soil Health

Generally, the cost of mulch can vary based on factors such as the material used, availability, and the region where it’s purchased. Mulches made from specific hardwood barks or exotic woods can be more expensive due to their limited availability or processing costs. You can spend a lot of money on mulch if you want to go that route. For example, you can buy specialty mulches such as cocoa mulch, rubber mulch, or dyed mulch. However, if you’re looking for low-cost mulching options, you don’t have to look far. There are so many great options.

Organic Mulch Options

Several low-cost organic mulch options are effective for gardens and landscapes. You probably already have them in your yard or garden. Alternatively, you can typically get them at a low cost. Examples include:

Wood Chips / Bark

These organic materials slowly decompose, enriching the soil with organic matter. They are very effective for weed suppression as well as for moisture retention. You can often get the material free or at a low cost from tree trimming services.

Leaves

You probably already have plenty of free leaves, especially if you live in a place where the leaves fall during fall. Free. This organic material provides insulation and retains moisture. You can spread out or shred the leaves for faster decomposition.

Pine Needles

Often free for collection in areas with pine trees, this option provides a lightweight and long-lasting mulch. Their acidic nature benefits acid-loving plants like azaleas or blueberries. That’s a point you want to consider; different organic mulches offer different benefits for different plants.

Grass Clippings

This option is high in nitrogen, providing nutrients as it decomposes. Spread thin layers of grass clippings to prevent matting and odor. If you live in a grassy area, this is a free option.

Straw/Hay

Unless you happen to live on a farm, this might not be a free option. However, it’s typically affordable. Straw/ hay are available in bales at garden centers or farm supply stores. It’s an effective mulch for weed suppression and moisture retention. And it adds organic matter to improve the soil as it decomposes.

Livestock Manure

This option adds nutrients and improves soil structure when aged or composted properly. It can be sourced from local farms or stables for free or cheap.

Recycled Materials

In addition to organic materials for mulch, you can use recycled materials. And some of these (like coffee grounds/ compost) fall into both categories.

Newspaper / Cardboard / Shredded Paper

Layer newspapers or cardboard sheets over the soil. You can combine this with any of the organic mulch options above to easily keep them in place. This technique suffocates weeds while breaking down over time.

Cloth / Fabric Scraps

Old fabric pieces or burlap sacks serve as effective weed barriers. Lay them over the soil and cover them with organic mulch for added insulation.

Compost

Homemade compost from kitchen scraps and yard waste can be one of the best low-cost mulching options you’ll find. It is rich in nutrients, promotes soil health, and aids plant growth.

Coffee Grounds

Often available for free from local coffee shops or your own kitchen remnants, coffee grounds are high in nitrogen, which is beneficial for soil and plants. They can be used as mulch alone or incorporated into compost.

Natural Ground Covers

You can also plant natural ground covers in your garden to add beauty while adding mulch. Options like clover, vetch, or even certain types of low-growing herbs serve as living mulches, providing numerous benefits to gardens. These ground covers act as living carpets, suppressing weed growth, retaining moisture, and protecting soil from erosion. Their root systems enhance soil structure, fostering a healthier environment for plant roots while reducing the need for additional mulch. Additionally, these ground covers often require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective and sustainable choice for gardeners aiming to improve soil health and curb weed growth without hefty expenses.

Read More:

• Using Shredded Paper as Garden Mulch
• Top 13 Benefits of Using Rice Hulls in Gardens
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Recently I shared with you that there are many different garden designs I want to learn more about. One of these designs is from Mughal gardens. These historic Indian gardens are known for their symmetrical design, use of geometric patterns, water features like pools and fountains, and lush greenery. So, I decided to do a little bit more research into these gardens. I learned a little bit about their history and their design. Moreover, I learned how to derive some frugal inspiration for adding features of this style to any garden. Today, I want to share with you what I learned.

History of Mughal Gardens

We can trace the roots of Mughal gardens back to Central Asia and Persia. There we find the concept of paradise gardens. Paradise gardens refer to enclosed, lush spaces with meticulously planned layouts. Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, introduced these garden traditions to the Indian subcontinent when he established his rule in the early 16th century.

However, it was during the reign of Babur’s grandson, Emperor Akbar, that Mughal gardens flourished and evolved into distinct forms. Akbar, known for his appreciation of art, culture, and architecture, commissioned several gardens, including the famous Garden of the Fateful, which blended Persian and Indian design elements. These gardens were aesthetically pleasing. More than that, though, they served as venues for imperial gatherings, relaxation, and contemplation.

Emperor Jahangir, Akbar’s son and successor, further developed the Mughal garden style. He had a profound love for nature and commissioned several gardens that incorporated a diverse array of flora, water features, and pavilions. The Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar and the Nishat Bagh in Kashmir are notable examples of his reign.

The zenith of Mughal garden design is often associated with Emperor Shah Jahan, who is renowned for constructing the Taj Mahal. The gardens surrounding the Taj Mahal itself reflect the pinnacle of Mughal garden architecture, featuring a symmetrical layout, reflecting pools, fountains, and meticulously planned green spaces.

Design Features of Mughal Gardens

Mughal gardens stand as a testament to the ingenuity and artistic vision of an empire that sought to create earthly paradises. Their symmetrical layouts, water features, lush greenery, and architectural elements continue to awe and inspire, serving as a timeless testament to a glorious era of architectural and horticultural splendor. Here’s a closer look at these design features:

Symmetry and Geometric Precision

At the heart of Mughal garden design lies a profound emphasis on symmetry and geometric precision. These gardens are meticulously laid out in perfect symmetrical patterns. They are often divided into quadrants or sections using pathways, water channels, or rows of trees. The precise alignment of pathways, water features, and planting beds reflects a deliberate pursuit of balance and harmony.

Charbagh Layout

The hallmark layout of Mughal gardens is the Charbagh, which translates to “four gardens.” This is a quadrilateral design which is divided into four parts. These four parts symbolize the four rivers of paradise in Islamic tradition. Each section is further subdivided into smaller squares or rectangles, creating a series of interconnected gardens within the larger scheme.

Water Features and Aqueducts

Water plays a central role in Mughal gardens. It symbolizes life, purity, and paradise. These gardens incorporate elaborate water features such as cascading fountains, reflecting pools, channels, and canals. These features not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also serve practical purposes of irrigation and cooling the surroundings. The presence of flowing water and reflective pools amplifies the serene ambiance of these spaces.

Pavilions and Architectural Elements

Strategically placed pavilions, known as ‘baradaris’ or ‘chhatris,’ dot the landscape of Mughal gardens. These pavilions serve as vantage points for enjoying the garden’s beauty and as retreats from the sun, providing shade and a place for leisure and contemplation. The architecture of these pavilions often exhibits intricate details, including ornate carvings and elaborate domes, showcasing the empire’s skilled craftsmanship.

Tilework: Mosaic Patterns

Mughal tilework often involves the creation of mosaic patterns using tiles made from glazed ceramic. These typically feature vibrant hues of blue, green, yellow, and turquoise. These mosaics were meticulously arranged to form intricate designs that captivated the eye and added a sense of grandeur to the garden architecture.

Flora and Landscaping

The lush greenery within Mughal gardens encompasses a meticulously curated selection of plants, including fragrant flowers, fruit-bearing trees, cypress, jasmine, and roses, among others. Designers plant the flora meticulously to create a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and scents, enhancing the sensory experience of visitors.

Integration with Surrounding Landscape

Mughal gardens do not exist as isolated entities; rather, they integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape. The gardens often make use of natural slopes and terrain, creating terraced levels that add depth and visual interest. The garden design often incorporates the surrounding vistas, whether mountains, rivers, or forests.

Terraces

Terracing is a significant feature in Mughal gardens, particularly in landscapes with varying elevations. These gardens often existed on sloping terrain. As a result, designers constructed terraces to create flat, leveled platforms for planting beds, pathways, and water channels.

Tips for Adding Elements of Mughal Design Frugally to Any Garden

• Symmetry Matters: Opt for simple, straight-edged pathways. You might even use strings and stakes to plan symmetrical planting layouts without expensive tools or materials.
• Water Features on a Budget: Repurpose containers or use affordable pre-formed liners to create small-scale water features like birdbaths or miniature fountains.
• Tile Accents: Utilize broken tiles or inexpensive mosaic kits to adorn small areas like garden pots or stepping stones with colorful mosaic patterns.
• Pavilion or Seating Area: Repurpose old furniture or use inexpensive materials like pallets to build a simple pergola or seating structure.
• Use of Plants: Choose budget-friendly, fast-growing plants like seeds or young saplings for jasmine, roses, or fruit trees. Look for plant sales or nurseries offering discounts.
• Geometric Planting Beds: Use cost-effective materials like wooden planks or recycled materials to create raised beds or planters in geometric shapes.
• Reflective Surfaces: Repurpose old mirrors or purchase affordable mirrored tiles to create reflective surfaces strategically placed in the garden.
• Low-Cost Lighting: Shop for budget-friendly string lights or solar-powered lanterns, or repurpose existing outdoor lighting to create an ambient atmosphere without overspending.
• Inexpensive Architectural Touches: Use PVC pipes, wooden frames, or affordable materials to construct arches, trellises, or decorative elements for an architectural touch.
• Creative Pruning: Invest time in learning basic pruning techniques and use simple, inexpensive tools like hand pruners to shape plants into geometric or artistic forms.

What do you think; could you incorporate elements of Mughal gardens into your garden on a budget?

Read More:

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I am a huge fan of thrift stores. Mostly, I go for the clothes. I almost never buy clothing that isn’t either secondhand or handmade. But thrift stores also have tons of other things. My partner is terrific about shopping thrift stores and estate sales for everything from vintage coffee makers to new used furniture. So, naturally, thrift store gardening ideas have come into my life. It’s a great way to get anything you might need for the garden without spending a lot of money.

Thrift Store Gardening Tools Are Often Durable

I’m admittedly not someone who uses a large number of tools. However, my father was a woodworker. My mother owned rental properties that she always fixed up herself. So, I know about tools, even if I don’t use them a whole lot myself. And what I know about most tools is that the ones made a really long time ago were made to last. Therefore,  if you find older tools, they’re actually likely to last you longer than buying the same brand new tool today. Of course, that’s not always the case. And there are plenty of new gadgets and gizmos that have features you just aren’t going to get from a decades-old device. But, overall, thrift store gardening allows you to find tools that might just last you a lifetime.

Top Ten Garden Tools to Get At Thrift Stores

You can find a range of different items at thrift stores, of course. Here are ten to look for as a gardener:

1. Hand Trowel: Secondhand trowels, being durable and frequently available, offer an affordable and reliable option for various planting and weeding needs.
2. Pruning Shears: This is another example of a tool that was crafted with sturdier materials in the past. Secondhand pruning shears provide a more resilient tool for precision trimming at a fraction of the cost of a new pair.
3. Shovel: Thrift stores offer a great selection of shovels.
4. Rake: And, of course, rakes are usually easy to find at thrift stores as well.
5. Garden Hoe: Why pay for a fancy garden hoe when a simple secondhand one does just as well?
6. Watering Can: Thrift stores frequently have a variety of watering cans, including unique vintage designs that add fun to the garden.
7. Garden Fork: If you can find a garden fork at a thrift store, get it!
8. Garden Gloves: Get a variety of different glove types at a low cost when you shop secondhand.
9. Wheelbarrow: Thrift stores often have secondhand wheelbarrows in good working condition, providing an affordable option for transporting heavy loads in your garden compared to buying a new one.
10. Garden Sprayer: These aren’t typically as easy to find in thrift stores but grab one if you see one.

Other Garden Items to Get at Thrift Stores

Beyond tools, thrift stores hold a myriad of unique and vintage garden decor items. The beauty lies in the discovery; you might stumble upon an item with a story, infusing your garden with personality and charm. Plus, repurposing items for the garden not only adds aesthetic value but also reduces waste by giving these pieces a second life. Examples to look for:

Pottery / Containers

Thrift stores offer an eclectic range of containers, from ceramic pots to quirky containers that can be upcycled as planters. You can uncover items like teapots, baskets, or even old drawers that can be transformed into unique plant-holding vessels. It’s a budget-friendly way to add flair and creativity to your gardening space while recycling and repurposing items that might otherwise go unused.

Garden Books and Resources

Thrift stores often carry a variety of gardening books, magazines, and resources at discounted prices. You might stumble upon vintage gardening manuals, plant encyclopedias, or DIY guides for garden projects. These resources can provide valuable insights, tips, and inspiration for both beginners and seasoned gardeners. Plus, flipping through the pages of a weathered book can add a nostalgic charm to your gardening journey.

Garden Furniture

Thrift stores often feature garden furniture pieces like chairs, tables, or benches. Look for sturdy, weather-resistant materials that can withstand outdoor conditions.

Outdoor Lighting

Thrift stores sometimes offer outdoor lighting options such as lanterns, string lights, or solar-powered fixtures. You might discover vintage lamps that can be repurposed or modern solar-powered lights that add a touch of enchantment to your garden pathways or seating areas.

Seasonal Decor and Planters

Seasonal planters or decorative elements can be easily switched out to keep your garden fresh and vibrant throughout the year. From Halloween scarecrows to Christmas-themed planters, these items can be excellent additions to celebrate different seasons or holidays in your garden.

Outdoor Games and Entertainment

Thrift stores sometimes carry outdoor games and entertainment items like croquet sets, badminton rackets, or old-fashioned board games designed for outdoor use. These items can provide a fun and nostalgic element to your garden.

Plant Starters and Garden Supplies

Apart from tools and decor, thrift stores sometimes offer plant starters like pots with young seedlings or cuttings. You might chance upon unused bags of soil, organic fertilizers, or barely used gardening gloves—all at a fraction of their original cost.

My Favorite Places for Thrift Store Gardening in the SF Bay Area

My partner recently introduced me to Urban Ore. It’s a huge warehouse thrift store in Berkeley that I can’t believe I hadn’t already known about. They have just about everything you might want – both for the home and for more industrial purposes. And they have a huge outdoor section. You know when you walk out the back of Home Depot into the garden section? It’s like that, but better. If you only go thrift store gardening in one place in the San Francisco Bay Area, then this is the place that I recommend.

The other place I’d highly recommend is SCRAP SF. This is actually an artist thrift store. Mostly I go here for yarn and canvas. However, there are so many different materials here. While you might not find garden tools, per se, you can still find a lot of items to upcycle for the garden. Planters, garden decor, etc. are all enhanced by the materials here.

Read More:

• Upcycling in the Garden
• Are Old Tires Toxic to Plants?
• Don’t Throw Those Pots Away!

I enjoy exploring different approaches to garden design. There are so many styles that evoke so many different feelings when you’re amidst them. Although I know a little bit about a few styles, there are many others I hope to learn more about in the weeks, months, and years to come.

3 Garden Designs I’ve Shared With You

I’ve already shared some details about a few different types of garden designs here on this site. Take a look:

Greek Garden Design

Discover the essence of Greek garden design: stone features, Mediterranean trees and herbs, terracotta accents, and vibrant colors. Embrace rustic finds, symmetrical layouts, and recycled materials to capture the essence of Greek gardens while staying within your budget.

English Garden Design

Zen Gardens

Zen gardens are characterized by their serene and minimalist design, fostering a tranquil environment through carefully arranged elements. You can use many natural elements to create them on a budget.

Garden Designs I Want to Learn More About

I like learning about historic garden design as well as contemporary design from around the world. Here are some of the different garden types that I would like to learn more about:

Mughal Gardens

The Mughal Gardens are historic gardens found in South Asia. They are designed to provide a little bit of paradise on Earth. Features include:

• Symmetrical Layout: They are typically divided into four quadrants or charbagh. These quadrants are typically organized around a central water feature or pool.
• Water Features: In addition to the central pool, Mughal gardens include elaborate water channels, fountains, and reflecting pools.
• Terraced Levels: Gardens are sometimes terraced to follow the natural contours of the land, creating a sense of depth and grandeur.
• Ornate Pavilions and Pavement: Mughal gardens often feature pavilions or pavilions adorned with intricate carvings, marble inlays, and decorative elements.
• Lush Vegetation: Gardens are lush with a variety of flora, including fragrant flowers, fruit-bearing trees, and symmetrical rows of cypress or other trees. These plants provide shade, fragrance, and aesthetic appeal.
• Intricate Tilework: Decorative tilework is a prominent feature in Mughal gardens, adorning walls, pathways, and fountains with colorful mosaic designs and intricate patterns.

Italian Renaissance Gardens

Europe has brought us many different types of gardens throughout time. Italian Renaissance gardens emphasize grandeur, elegance, and human-made beauty. They incorporate extensive use of classical statuary, fountains, terraces, and formal plantings, displaying meticulous symmetry and refined aesthetics. The incorporation of art into nature in these gardens is one thing that really appeals to me.

Additional features include:

• Geometry: These gardens are known for their geometric precision. They often follow precise axes, with pathways, hedges, and flowerbeds arranged in symmetrical patterns, creating a sense of order and balance.
• Formal Design Elements: Italian Renaissance gardens incorporate formal design elements such as perfectly manicured hedges, geometrically shaped flowerbeds (parterres), and precisely aligned paths or walkways.
• Water Features: Water is used to create soothing sounds, provide visual interest, and symbolize purity and life.
• Ornate Architectural Elements: Gardens often include ornate pavilions, sculptures, statues, and architectural structures like pergolas or gazebos.
• Sculpted Plantings: Plants are often pruned and shaped meticulously to maintain a controlled and uniform appearance. This includes topiaries, shaped shrubs, and espaliered trees against walls, showcasing a refined and sculptural aspect.

French Formal Gardens

French formal gardens and Italian Renaissance gardens share similarities. For example, they both emphasize geometric layouts and formal design. They both embrace a sense of grandeur and meticulous planning. Moreover, they both incorporate ornate architectural elements within their designs.

However, they differ in their nuances: French formal gardens lean toward highly structured and manicured geometric precision, employing elaborate parterres, meticulously sculpted hedges, and axial pathways to create grand vistas. In contrast, Italian Renaissance gardens also embrace symmetry and geometric precision but often incorporate terraces, water features like fountains and reflecting pools, and a deeper integration of art, architecture, and natural landscapes, aiming to evoke a sense of classical harmony and humanistic ideals.

While both styles exude elegance and sophistication through formal design principles, Italian Renaissance gardens often encompass a broader integration of natural and architectural elements, while French formal gardens exhibit meticulous and controlled geometrical aesthetics with precise axial arrangements. I’d like to gain even more insight into the differences between these two garden types.

California Modern & Minimalist Gardens

California modern and minimalist gardens fuse contemporary design principles with the state’s outdoor lifestyle. These gardens prioritize clean lines, simplicity, and functionality while embracing the natural beauty of the Californian landscape. Key elements include:

• Clean Design Aesthetics: Characterized by minimalism, these gardens focus on simplicity in layout and plant selection. They incorporate geometric shapes, straight lines, and open spaces to create a sense of order and tranquility.
• Hardscaping Elements: Materials like concrete, metal, wood, and glass dominate the design, forming pathways, decks, seating areas, and retaining walls. These elements often showcase craftsmanship and emphasize functionality while maintaining an elegant appearance.
• Native and Drought-Tolerant Plants: To align with California’s climate and conserve water, plant choices typically include native species or drought-resistant plants such as succulents, agaves, grasses, and other low-maintenance flora. These plants provide texture and color while requiring minimal water.
• Emphasis on Outdoor Living: California modern gardens often blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating seamless transitions. They feature outdoor kitchens, lounge areas, fire pits, and built-in seating, encouraging outdoor living and entertainment.
• Sustainable Features: Sustainable practices are integral. Gardens may incorporate environmentally friendly elements such as permeable paving, rainwater harvesting systems, and efficient irrigation techniques to conserve water and reduce environmental impact.
• Integration of Art and Sculpture: Sculptural elements, art installations, and strategically placed focal points enhance the garden’s visual appeal, adding artistic flair and creating points of interest within the minimalist landscape.
• Maintenance and Functionality: These gardens prioritize functionality and ease of maintenance. Plantings are often strategically placed to reduce upkeep, and the overall design aims for simplicity and practicality in its upkeep.

What’s your favorite garden design? Share in the comments!

Have you ever visited a Zen garden and walked away feeling an immense sense of peace? This tranquility is no accident. The simple, intentional design of zen gardens creates this for us. And you can create it for yourself in your own space. More importantly, you can do so on a budget.

What is a Zen Garden?

This past week, my partner and I stayed at an Airbnb with a beautiful backyard garden. We chose it because it was dog friendly and our dogs were the entire reason that we were going there. But, of course, the garden itself was a nice added bonus. And I realized while I was there that sometimes it’s really nice to enjoy someone else’s garden rather than sitting in your own.

Why We Took Our Airbnb Garden Trip

My pup just had CCL surgery, which means that she is on sedatives and not supposed to walk around. Her full recovery time is about ten weeks. However, those first days are, of course the toughest ones. We live in an apartment up two flights of stairs, and neither one of us wanted to deal with the headache and hassle of taking her up those stairs immediately after surgery. Instead, we wanted a place to stay where she could easily walk out the door into a yard and do her business and go right back in, no stars necessary. That’s why we got an Airbnb for a few days.

We chose the Airbnb because it was a home that didn’t just say “dogs allowed” but actually really welcomed dogs. There’s a difference. Especially when you have two dogs and the smaller one is 80 pounds. The one who had surgery is 108 pounds. If you were wondering why we weren’t ready to carry her upstairs, that probably explains it. We communicated with the homeowners in advance and throughout the stay. They were generous with their space and great about our dogs. It was a wonderful experience.

We stayed in a small studio guesthouse without a real kitchen which ended up just perfect because there wasn’t a lot of space for the dog to try to move around while she was supposed to be resting. There was a regular door as well as a double sliding door. That was perfect. With the cone of shame on her head, she could still walk easily through the door, off onto the porch, get some fresh air and do her business.

Dogs in the garden, photo by Kathryn Vercillo

The Garden at the Airbnb

What was perfect about this garden was that it was lush and beautiful … but it wasn’t perfectly manicured. In other words, if my dogs trampled it a little bit, which my dogs do, nobody was going to complain. That’s exactly the kind of garden that we needed.

The backyard consisted of a ground level and then a small set of stairs up to a slight upper level. On the upper level sat a wooden swing. The garden included plants throughout both levels. From the upper level, a perimeter of plants extended around much of the yard against the fence.

There were a variety of different plants and trees in this garden. I honestly didn’t look closely enough at most of them to identify them. I was in a state of wanting to just receive the overall impress and indulge in that beauty and sensation. In other words, I didn’t want to think about it too much. And it was a beautiful, peaceful garden, so I didn’t need to.

There were also a lot of extra decor items in the garden. Wind chimes hung in trees and off of the patio. I adore wind chimes so that was particularly delightful. Statues, fountains, trellis, potted plants, and other decor added to the space. It was all perfect.

The Pleasures of Another Person’s Garden

What was particularly great about enjoying this garden is it’s the kind of space that I like but I probably wouldn’t create myself. We all have different styles and sometimes we just don’t think about doing things the way that someone else might do them. When we spend time in those other spaces, we get inspiration. Sometimes we use that inspiration to make changes in our own space. Sometimes we just delight in the differences while we’re in the other space. Either way, it’s a beautiful experience.

Indulging, Enjoying, Without Working

The best part of enjoying someone else’s garden for just a short period of time is that there’s no work to be done there. Yes, working in the garden can be meditative and enjoyable. But sometimes you just want to rest and indulge in what the garden has to offer without having to do any work. At least, I do. Do you?

If I’m in my own space, I always see the flaws, the imperfections, the little things that still need to be taken care of. Even if I’m just relaxing in the space and overall not feeling the need to “work” in it, it’s still a little nagging thing in the back of my mind. This could be watered, that could be swept up, this needs to be planted … It’s hard to look at your own space without thinking of what there is to be done. At least, it is hard for me. Is it hard for you?

However, I don’t have any of those judgments in another person’s space. I simply enjoy what is there to be enjoyed. I’m more in the moment. The birds were chirping, the squirrels were scurrying, the leaves were fluttering … and I didn’t feel any particular need to do anything, fix anything, water anything, trim anything. I could simply mindfully take in all of the details of the space without any obligation or desire to do anything more than exactly that.

Other Pleasures of Another’s Garden

Some of the other things that are great about spending time enjoying someone’s garden other than your own might include:

• Bonding with the person whose garden it is, celebrating their space with them
• Enjoying seeing and even learning about plants that differ from those in your own space, especially if you’ve traveled far from home to someone else’s garden
• Likewise, enjoying plants that you would never plant yourself – flowers if you’re a vegetable gardener, for example, or vice versa
• And finally, returning home to your own garden with a completely different perspective and appreciation for it

Read More:

• Could My Dogs Save Me Money in the Garden?
• A Visit to Hollister House Garden
• Greek Gardening Style on the Cheap