A lack of space can be a plus or a minus when it comes to gardening. People who live in apartments or condominiums, where space is truly at a premium, can convert even the tiniest space into an idyllic garden that will satisfy the senses and soothe the soul.
Prepare the Soil
Amending soil with an organic soil conditioner is the most important step in preparing any garden. In a small garden, it's important when a number of shade-tolerant plants that require rich soil are going to be planted. This process takes a little time and effort and makes a real difference between success and failure in the life of any garden. In a small garden, a border can add a lot visually as well as serve to keep dirt and mulch in the garden.
Lay Out the Garden
Next, figure out how to lay out the plants in the garden. Leave the plants in their containers and move them around before planting them. Dig the planting holes roughly twice as wide as the plant's root ball, but not quite as deep to allow for some settling. Carefully remove each plant from its container (then return the recyclable containers to the nursery). If a plant has been in a pot for too long, the roots begin growing in a circle. Make cuts here and there to encourage young feeder roots to grow and spread. After sticking a plant in its planting hole, rotate it a bit to get the most flattering or interesting angle before filling in the hole with soil. Remember to plant from the back to the front to get a better perspective on the design and to keep from having to step lightly to avoid trampling any plants.
Add Mulch
Mulch is like icing on the cake. Shredded wood mulch is better than chips, which tend to float away during heavy rains. Cypress, cedar and redwood are better than pine, which tends to decompose too quickly. Pine needles, crushed pecan shells or other mulching materials also work nicely in a small garden. Don't forget to add hanging baskets or a bird feeder.
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