Gardening is a great hobby for many reasons. Tending to your beloved plants can relieve stress. It is a hobby that allows for creativity and self-express, both of which can make us feel good. You may have heard a lot about miniature gardening over the years and if you are wondering more about it, here are some frequently asked questions.
What Is Miniature Gardening?
In a nutshell, miniature gardening is just like regular gardening, except you use very small plants and accessories that are to scale. The garden is comprised of miniature and dwarf plants—these names do not describe the size at full maturity, but rather the rate at which these trees and shrubs grow. Dwarf plants grow one to six inches yearly, while miniature plants grow one inch or less per year. You can add all sorts of accessories to create unique miniature gardens in a variety of themes
Where Can I Plant a Miniature Garden?
As for where you can plant a garden, the answer is pretty much anywhere so long as the plants are in the proper environment needed to thrive. Some plants need more sunlight while others do better in the shade; some plants would not do as well indoors as others.Once you scout out potential locations, look for choosing plants that will do well in that area.
How Long do Miniature Gardens Last?
The life of a miniature garden will depend on whether you plant it in a pot or in the ground—the former will last several years, while the latter can last indefinitely with proper care. Like a regular garden, you need to pay careful attention to the health of the plants to judge whether the environment is conducive to healthy growth. Some trees can stay in pots for years, while others will have to be moved to a bigger space to thrive. If you want a long-lasting miniature garden placed in a pot, it is recommend that you start with a container that is at least 10 inches deep and 10 inches wide.
When Should I Water My Plants?
Like regular gardens, watering miniature plants for miniature gardens will depend on the individual plants you are using. For easier maintenance, it is a good idea to choose plants that have similar watering needs. For the most accurate care, read up on the requirements of the individual plants. But, as a general rule, you should water your plants if, after sticking your finger about an inch down into the soil, it is only slightly damp or completely dry. If you travel frequently, succulent plants that do not require lots of watering are a good choice; if you live in a colder area, dwarf junipers and mugo pines are good choices for succulents.
What are the Fertilizer Needs?
Miniature gardens usually do not require as much fertilizer as regular gardens, which contain plants you want to grow fast and strong. The name of the game is keeping them healthy. If your miniature garden is inground, a yearly top dressing of compost is recommended; if your garden is in pots, you will need a mild fertilizer in the early spring and early-to-mid summer about two to three years in.