Chapter 31: How to Create a Planting Plan

Planting at home and becoming self-sustainable is a task that requires planning, dedication and knowledge. In this chapter, we'll cover how to create an effective planting plan to maximize the productivity of your home garden.

1. Rate your space

First of all, it is necessary to evaluate the available space. Be it a porch, a backyard or an interior room, each space has its particularities that must be considered. Check the incidence of sunlight, air circulation and water availability. It is also important to consider the ease of access to care for the plants and harvest the products.

2. Choose the plants

Once you've assessed the space, it's time to choose the plants. Consider your region's climate and the needs of each plant. Some plants need more sun, others need more shade. Some need more water, others less. Also, remember to choose plants that you like and that are useful to you. It can be herbs for seasoning, vegetables for food, flowers for decoration, etc.

3. Make a schedule

With the plants chosen, it's time to make a schedule. Write down when each plant should be planted, when it should be watered, when it should be fertilized, when it should be pruned, etc. This will help you stay organized and not forget any important precautions.

4. Prepare the soil

Soil is essential for plant growth. It should be rich in nutrients and have good drainage. If the soil in your space is not suitable, you can improve it by adding organic compost or buy prepared soil. It is also important to rotate crops, that is, to alternate plants from time to time so as not to deplete soil nutrients.

5. Implement the plan

With everything planned, it's time to get your hands dirty. Plant the seeds or seedlings in the prepared soil, respecting the spacing indicated for each plant. Water as needed and watch the plants grow. If something isn't going well, don't get discouraged. Gardening is a constant learning process.

6. Register and adjust

Finally, it is important to record what was done and the results obtained. This will help identify what worked and what didn't, allowing for adjustments to improve the planting plan. Remember, the goal is to become self-sustaining, so every learning is a step in that direction.

Growing at home and becoming self-sustainable is a rewarding journey. With planning and dedication, you can transform your space into a productive and sustainable garden. We hope this guide has been helpful in starting that journey. Good luck and good planting!