10 Urban Gardening Must-Haves

Have you dreamed of growing fresh food in your urban space? Urban gardening makes this possible, even with small containers or vertical setups. The US Department of Agriculture considers urban gardening a major part of a sustainable food system. For Black communities, urban gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s our pathway to better health, self-sufficiency, and food security.

According to Advancing Earth and Space Science Journal, urban agriculture contributes nearly 10% of the world’s vegetable and legume production. This emphasizes its importance in bridging nutritional gaps. Unfortunately, Black participation in urban farming is lower than that of Whites, according to a Frontiers report. Imagine the impact if more Black families embraced this movement.

With creativity and the right tools, I transformed my two-bedroom apartment into a thriving garden, growing fresh produce right at home. If I can do it, so can you.

Whether you’re ready to start your urban garden or need help maintaining one, you’ll need these 10 essential items. Be sure to click the link or image for a direct connection to the item.

1. Container for Planting

In urban settings with limited space, containers have become essential for successfully growing food. Whether you choose raised beds, pots, or window boxes, containers provide the flexibility to cultivate a variety of plants even when there is no adequate land.

Tip: If you’re growing root vegetables such as carrots, onions, garlic, or ginger, ensure your container is at least 12 inches deep to allow for proper root growth. Don’t forget to add drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Elevate Black Health recommends the GENMOUS Tiered Raised Garden Bed.

2. Gardening Tools

Essential gardening tools, such as a hand trowel, small rake, and pruning shears, can make a big difference in helping you achieve a thriving garden. With them, you can plant, prune, and care for your garden with minimal effort.

Tip: Always clean your tools after use to prevent the spread of plant disease. Remove any debris and rust to keep them sharp and ready for the next time you need them.

Here’s a gardening tool set recommended by Elevate Black Health: Grenebo’s 9-piece heavy-duty gardening hand tools.

3. Soil

We need soil to farm, but getting the right quality can be challenging in urban areas, where soil conditions usually vary significantly. In 2020, Science Direct’s Journal of Cleaner Production reported that urban soil tends to be less nutrient-rich and lacks certain essential minerals for plant growth.

The easiest option is to buy high-quality potting soil. However, if you prefer not to purchase soil, look for lightweight, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Tip: If you can’t afford to buy soil, consider sourcing it from a nearby small town and mixing it with compost for optimal results.

Elevate Black Health recommends FoxFarm Happy Frog Potting Soil.

4. Efficient Watering System

When I started gardening, ensuring my plants received consistent moisture was tricky. Efficiency is key, whether you’re considering a traditional watering can, a self-watering system, or a hose.

After trying several methods, I discovered that a drip irrigation system is a fantastic, hands-off option, especially for container gardens. It delivers water directly to the plants’ roots. According to Colorado State University, a drip irrigation system has an efficiency rate of over 90% compared to a sprinkler system, which typically ranges from 50% to 70%.

Tip: The best times to water your plants are early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation and prevent overheating.

Elevate Black Health highly recommends this Automatic Plant Waterer Indoor Self-Watering System for 15 Potted Plants.

5. Fertilizer and Plant Food

Urban soil often lacks essential nutrients, particularly if it has not been tested for organic matter content. Liquid plant food or organic fertilizer can help plants flourish and yield well. I recommend using worm castings, fish emulsion, or compost tea, as these options are more eco-friendly.

Tip: Before applying fertilizer, be sure to read the instructions. Improper application can lead to overfeeding, which may damage plants or result in unhealthy growth.

Here’s a nontoxic liquid concentrate highly recommended by Elevate Black Health: SUPERthrive The Original Vitamin Solution.

6. Compost Bin

Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for plants. Vegetable scraps and other organic materials can be composted.

Tip: Keep your compost bin in a well-ventilated area and turn the contents regularly to ensure proper decomposition.

Elevate Black Health recommends EPICA Countertop Compost Bin.

7. Mulch

One of the struggles I faced when I started urban gardening was not knowing the importance of mulch. According to Denver Urban Gardens, mulch is essential for gardeners who want to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain stable temperatures for their plants. It can also improve soil health and enhance microbial activity. Some of the best types of mulch are straw, shredded leaves, and wood chips.

Tip: Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch around your plants to maximize benefits. For raised beds, use mulch to cover the seeds after planting.

Try this 100% Natural Cedar Shavings that Elevate Black Health recommends.

8. Trellises and Supports

A trellis is essential for growing climbing crops like cucumbers, beans, sweet potatoes, or tomatoes. It helps keep your plants upright and organized in a small space. You can purchase pre-made trellises made of plastic or metal or build yours using wire mesh or bamboo.

Tip: Regularly check that your plants are well supported and that the trellis can support their weight.

Here’s a metal trellis recommended by Elevate Black Health: Indoor Plant Trellis for Climbing Plants.

9. Pest Control Tools

Pests are likely to appear wherever there are plants. However, I have found an eco-friendly way to keep them at bay. I use neem oil and insecticidal soap to deter insects. According to Organic Plant Care, you can introduce ladybugs, praying mantises, and parasitic wasps to help with pest control.

Tip: Regularly inspect your plants and act quickly once you discover any pests.

Elevate Black Health’s recommendation is Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Max.

10. Grow Lights

The tiny space where we grow our plants may have limited sunlight, which is why we need grow lights. Grow lights mimic natural light and support plant growth in darker areas.

Tip: Choose energy-saving fluorescent lights or LEDs with a full light spectrum for optimal photosynthesis. Lighting your garden for 12 to 16 hours each day would help it thrive.

Here’s Elevate Black Health’s recommendation: GooingTop LED Grow Light.

With the right tools and knowledge, urban gardening can be a fulfilling and sustainable hobby. Whether you want to grow herbs, vegetables, or flowers, these 10 essential tools will set you up for success. Elevate Black Health suggests that you consider gardening a learning process. Take your time, learn as you go, and enjoy the journey. Happy gardening!