With the rising cost of food, starting a small home garden for subsistence farming is a great way to ensure a steady supply of fresh vegetables and herbs. If you live in a semi-urban area in Kenya, you don’t need a large space—just a small backyard, balcony, or even containers can work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start and maintain your home garden.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Find a spot with adequate sunlight, as most vegetables need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. A backyard, rooftop, or balcony with good air circulation is ideal. Ensure the area is safe from animals and strong winds.
Step 2: Select Suitable Crops
Pick crops that grow well in Kenya’s climate and suit your household’s needs. Some great options include sukuma wiki (kale), spinach, tomatoes, onions, carrots, and traditional vegetables like managu and terere.
Step 3: Prepare the Soil
Good soil is key to healthy plants. If you have land, enrich the soil with compost or manure. If using containers, get quality potting soil or a mix of garden soil and compost for nutrients.
Step 4: Choose the Right Planting Method
For small spaces, vertical gardening, container gardening, or raised beds work best. Use recycled containers or sacks if land is limited.
Step 5: Water and Mulch Regularly
Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent evaporation. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps weeds away.
Step 6: Maintain and Protect Your Garden
Regularly weed, prune, and check for pests. Use organic methods like neem spray or companion planting to control insects naturally.
Step 7: Harvest and Replant
Harvest crops at the right time to encourage continuous growth. Replant new crops to ensure a steady supply of fresh food.
With dedication and simple techniques, a small home garden can provide fresh, organic food for your family while reducing grocery expenses. Happy gardening! 🌱
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