I do not consider myself a gardener, just a want-a-be. For years, I have killed more vegetables in container gardening attempts than my family has eaten. Last year I stepped outside my comfort zone and did the unthinkable…planted a real vegetable garden.
A church in our community started a series of cement block gardens last year that were intriguing. After a couple of weeks of watching their progress, I knew this would be the perfect project. Using cement blocks, landscape fabric to control weeds, and a mixture of gardening soils– cheap dirt and Miracle Grow, the garden was ready in just a few hours time.
Cement blocks are not the prettiest, but they are the cheapest at $1.25 each. For someone who has wasted more money than I care to admit on gardening, they were perfect. Infact, I’m sure if the Homeowners Association knew cement blocks were in my backyard I would be getting a lovely little letter. However, going into year two, plans are in the works to dress the blocks up with either brick or stone. Another project I need to learn how to do!
This year I planted tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, romaine lettuce, and strawberries. The romaine and strawberries are planted in the cement block holes. Last year the holes would fill with weeds weekly and quickly became a dreaded chore. There is still some space available and I plan to squeeze in a few more plants and some flowers.
If you are considering gardening–go for it! It is a wonderful way to bless family and friends with fresh produce right from our own yards. If you are a natural green thumb or a beginner like myself, send us your photos and comment with your tips to a successful garden. I would love to know what you have growing success with and what you have planted this year.
* The links above will take you to Lowe’s. I am not being compensated or have I been asked to share these links–just the first home supply store that popped to mind.
About Kellie Renfroe
Kellie and her husband Greg have been married 32 years and have four children ranging in age from 17 to 28. She co-founded Mentoring Moments for Christian Women in 2005. Kellie is a homeschooling mom who enjoys reading, studying the Bible, writing, photography, and learning how to cook.
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