The weather is warming up and many homeowners are looking forward to getting their hands in the dirt and their gardens up and running. However, if you are budget conscious and looking to eliminate credit card debt it will be helpful to see some tips to raising a successful garden on a budget!
Create a spring garden – without derailing debt management efforts – with these tips.
Tips For A Budget Friendly Spring Garden
Start With Some Research Planning Your Spring Garden
Before you start digging holes in your yard, look out for expert advice and information on topics like how to properly get your flower beds ready for planting, which plants grow and suit your area the best, and when and how to care for those plants as they grow. Pay attention to other factors such as climate and sun exposure. A little extra time planning out your garden with finer details will help you avoid spending any unnecessary money on your botanical project.
Choose Perennials Over Annuals
Choose perennials that will come back year after year. These are most suitable to cover larger grounds and fill bare spots in your garden. You can use annuals in conjunction to give a lush overall look. This way, the end result can be both beautiful and budget-friendly year-round.
Look for Used Gardening Tools Instead of New Ones
This is where online resources such as eBay and Craigslist can come in handy to save some extra dollars. You can find cheap, sometimes free gardening tools & equipment through these websites. This will help you stay on budget. If you are new to the world of gardening, look into the possibility of borrowing some equipment from friends/family in the beginning without adding items to your shopping cart at the garden center.
Consider Growing Some Produce
Along with the beautiful flower beds, consider planting some fruit and vegetable seeds if space permits. The money you spend on vegetable and herb seeds can potentially save you on the spring and summer grocery bill. Basil, parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash are fairly easy to grow and harvest.
Reuse/Recycle/DIY
These ideas seem like common terminology associated with a frugal lifestyle. Like in any other home project, a gardening project can use a lot of DIY, eco-friendly techniques. The internet can help you find out ways you can use things like plastic soda bottles, old boots, and old pots and pans to add character to your gardening venture.
With the change in seasons, a spring garden is not the only expense you will have to incur. When working towards your financial goal to eliminate credit card debt, keep that in mind and spend carefully on all of these types of projects.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
