Starting your first garden is exciting, and choosing the right plants can make it a breeze. In this guide, we'll explore 10 easy plants to grow for beginners. These plants are low-maintenance and resilient, making them ideal for those new to gardening. Let's jump into the planting world and discover these hassle-free options for your green space.
Basil
Basil is an excellent herb of hydroponic plant for beginners due to its simple cultivation. For optimal growth, provide basil with full sunlight, ensuring it receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use well-draining soil (pH 6-7) in the garden or containers, amended with compost for optimal moisture control.
Maintain consistent but not excessive moisture, allowing the top soil to dry before watering. Basil is sensitive to cold, so plant it after the last frost and maintain temperatures between 50-90°F (10-32°C), significantly when growing indoors. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth, and you should harvest in the morning for the best flavor.
Besides, feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer daily. Check for pests like aphids and whiteflies, and ensure good air circulation to prevent diseases. Basil's aromatic presence and varied flavors make it a perfect addition to any dish, offering a rewarding experience for novice gardeners.
Garlic
Growing garlic is an easy and rewarding experience for beginners. To cultivate garlic successfully, choose a sunny location. Garlic prefers loose soil rich in organic matter, so consider amending it with compost. Or ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy. Fall is the best time to start growing garlic.
Plant the cloves with the pointed end above upward and the flat end down. Space them about 4-6 inches apart, with rows 12-18 inches apart. Then, plant the cloves about 2 inches deep in heavier soils and 3 inches deep in sandy soils. Cover with soil and water well.
As the garlic grows, remove any flower shoots (scapes) to redirect energy into bulb development. Harvest time typically occurs in late spring or early summer when the lower leaves turn yellow and dry. Make the bulbs to cure in a warm, dry area for a few weeks before storing.
Garlic can be resistant to pests and diseases due to its strong aroma. Companion planting garlic with other crops can help deter pests. With its culinary versatility and health benefits, growing garlic at home is simple and allows you to enjoy fresh, flavorful bulbs in various dishes.
Lettuce
Lettuce is the most simple plant to grow for the first time. When growing lettuce, you should choose a sunny or partially shaded location. Lettuce prefers loose, fertile soil, so add compost for nutrient-rich conditions. Plant lettuce seeds in the garden or containers, sowing them thinly and covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogging.
Lettuce is a cool-season plant, so you should grow lettuce hydroponic plants in early spring or fall. As the lettuce grows, thin the seedlings to ensure proper spacing, promoting healthier plants. Mulching around the lettuce can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Begin to harvest when the lettuce leaves reach a size you find satisfactory. You can pick leaves or cut the entire head just above the soil. Freshly lettuce can make great salad and sandwiches.
Cherry Tomatoes
Growing cherry tomatoes is an excellent way for beginners to start their gardening journey. Begin by selecting a shining light location in a garden bed or containers, in this case, a hydroponic system is also suitable for this plant. Cherry tomatoes thrive in full sunlight, so aim for at least 6-8 hours daily.
Plant cherry tomato seeds or seedlings after the last frost in the spring. Space the plants about 2 feet apart if planting in the ground. Maintain the soil so it is consistently moist but not soggy. Boost its fertility by incorporating organic matter, such as compost.
As cherry tomatoes grow, you should offer structural support with stakes or cages to prevent them from sprawling and make harvesting easier. Frequently monitor the soil moisture and rinse when the top inch feels dry. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
Cherry tomatoes are usually ready for harvest 60-70 days after planting. You can harvest when the tomatoes reach vibrant color and gentle softness to the touch. With their sweet taste, tomatoes can help you feel fresh in salads, snacks, or culinary dishes.
Cacti
Cacti are now popular with many home gardens as they are easy plants to grow and maintain indoors or outdoors. Place them in a sunny spot with direct sunlight, providing several hours of light each day. Use a well-draining cactus mix or enhance regular potting soil with sand or perlite for optimal growth.
It's crucial to avoid overwatering, and make sure the soil completely dries out between waterings, as cacti are in arid conditions. Choose containers with drainage holes to prevent the risk of waterlogged soil, and be mindful of the spines when handling them.
Cacti generally don't need frequent repotting. You should do it every 2-3 years when they outgrow their container. Use fresh cactus mix for optimal growth. These low-maintenance plants can be a captivating addition to your collection by mimicking their natural habitat.
Spider Plants
Spider plants are fantastic for beginners, given their easy going nature and aesthetic appeal. These plants adapt well to different environments, whether indoors or outdoors, with their gracefully arching leaves. They don't require much light, and their temperature ranges from 60-75°F (15-24°C), making them suitable for placing at any spots in your home.
Spider plants are pretty forgiving with watering. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist during active growth periods, but don't worry if you occasionally forget – they're resilient. The plant produces "pups" or baby spider plants, and you can effortlessly propagate them to expand your green collection. Spider plants are visually charming and low-maintenance, ideal for beginners or those wanting an easy touch of nature in their spaces.
Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a lovely and easy to grow flowers Australia. It needs bright, indirect light but can also do well in lower-light areas. Water when the top part of the soil feels dry, and if it droops, that's a sign it needs water. Remain the soil consistently moist, but don't overwater.
Peace Lilies enjoy humidity, so misting them or placing a tray of water nearby can help. Keep them in a comfy temperature range(65-80°F (18-27°C)), away from drafts. Use a container with drainage holes to stop overwatering. You'd better repot the peace lily every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Also, trim any yellow or brown leaves to keep it looking nice.
Remember, Peace Lilies are a bit toxic as they have crystals that can cause irritation and swelling if eaten, leading to discomfort, so keep them away from pets and kids. They produce beautiful white flowers that can last for weeks with care.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is an easy to grow plant. Put it in a spot with some sunlight, but it still works find if it's not too bright. Aloe vera thrives in temperatures between 59-77°F (15-25°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures except for frost.
You should ensure the pot has holes for water to drain so the soil doesn't dry.
Water it when the top part of the soil feels dry, but don't water too much – it's better to let it dry out between waterings. Aloe vera doesn't require frequent fertilizing. You can use a diluted, balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer. Remember to avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter.
Keep it at a regular room temperature, and avoid putting it in places with significant temperature changes. Aloe Vera is rigid, so it can handle a bit of forgetfulness.
The cool part about Aloe Vera is that if you have a burn or a scratch, you can cut open one of its leaves, and the gooey stuff inside is excellent for your skin. It's a handy and straightforward plant for anyone, especially if you're starting to grow plants.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, known as Sansevieria or Mother-in-law's Tongue, is a super easy and best indoor plant. This plant does well in low-light conditions, making it suitable for spaces with indirect sunlight with temperatures around 70-90°F (21-32°C). Snake Plants have sturdy, upright leaves that store water, so they're pretty forgiving if you forget to water them—allowing the soil to dry before the subsequent watering is better to prevent overwatering.
You can place Snake Plants in any room with a regular temperature, and they'll be happy. They only need a little fertilizer, only in spring and summer. The Snake Plant is also known for purifying the air, making it an excellent choice for your indoor environment.
Overall, the Snake Plant is a low-maintenance, hardy plant that adds a touch of green to your space without much fuss.
ZZ Plants
ZZ Plant, also known as Zamioculcas Zamiifolia. It is a hardy and low-maintenance indoor plant. This adaptable plant can thrive in various light conditions but prefers indirect light and temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C), making it suitable for spaces with limited sunlight. ZZ Plants are drought-tolerant, and it's best to let the soil dry out completely between waterings to prevent overwatering.
It is perfect when growing ZZ plants in soil with a mix of perlite or sand. They tolerate average room temperatures well, and occasional fluctuations are not a concern. Fertilizing is infrequent, with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer applied every 2-3 months throughout the growing season.
While ZZ Plants are easy to grow plants, it's important to note their mild toxicity, so keeping them out of reach of pets and small children is advisable. The ZZ Plant can be a stylish and resilient addition to any indoor space with its striking glossy green foliage and minimal care requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow these plants in different climates?
Many of these plants are adaptable to various climates, but it's crucial to consider the specific needs of each plant and choose varieties suitable for your local climate.
What type of soil is best for these plants?
The ideal soil for these plants can vary, but a well-draining and nutrient-rich soil mix is generally suitable. It's essential to consider the specific needs of each plant and, if possible, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve its fertility and structure. Additionally, regular monitoring of soil moisture and adjusting watering practices accordingly is crucial for the success of these plants..
Are there any specific pests or diseases I should watch out for when growing these plants?
Yes, while these plants are generally hardy, knowing about common pests like aphids and diseases like powdery mildew is essential. Regular monitoring and proper care can prevent most issues. Below are some specific pets and diseases that you should know to take care for plants:
- Pests: Aphids, spider mites, caterpillars, cabbage worms, mealybugs, flea beetles,..
- Diseases: Mint rust, powdery mildew, root rot,...
Can I grow these plants together in the same garden bed or container?
Companion planting can be beneficial, but it's essential to consider each plant's individual needs. Some combinations work well, while others may compete for resources. Be mindful of spacing and compatibility.
Gardening is a journey best started with simplicity. The ten easy plants to grow we've covered are the perfect companions for first-time gardeners, offering a taste of success and a sense of joy in nurturing your little green haven. Enjoy the process, learn as you go, and let these plants be the foundation for your budding gardening journey.
