How to Create a Thriving Garden In Any Conditions

Garden Weather: How to Thrive in Any Climate

Gardening can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re facing harsh winters or scorching summers. Maybe you’ve already started your garden but aren’t seeing the lush, thriving results you hoped for. While we’ve previously covered tips on planting by seasonal zones, let's dive into how you can create a flourishing garden in any weather, whether you’re working with an outdoor space or setting up an indoor kitchen garden (our personal favorite!). We’re passionate about growing your own food right on your windowsill, but we wanted to get insights from someone whose garden truly thrives, even in the cold winters of Maine. Kirsten Lie-Nielsen, a writer and farmer, manages a bustling farm in Maine with her husband. She’s the author of two books, including The Modern Homesteader’s Guide to Keeping Geese and So You Want to Be a Modern Homesteader?, and she dedicates her online presence to encouraging others to embrace homesteading. Kirsten’s thriving garden is proof that with a little knowledge and effort, you can create a flourishing garden no matter where you live.

Creating a Thriving Vegetable and Herb Garden in a Cold Climate

The Challenges

Living in a cold climate like Maine, it's easy to think of gardening as a short-lived, one-season activity. In Maine, gardeners typically start planting around Memorial Day, and by the end of September, most of the harvest is done. The long, snowy winters with short daylight hours make it tough, and frost can be a big problem. Knowing the right time to plant in the spring and harvest in the fall can be the difference between a thriving garden and a disappointing season.

The Solutions

At Urban Leaf, we believe there are no gardening failures, just experiments that help you learn. Kirsten agrees that a cold climate doesn’t mean you can't have a flourishing garden. Sure, you might face some setbacks, but don't let them discourage you. Learn from every challenge. “A little extra attention during the winter can keep your garden going,” says Kirsten. The key is tailoring your care to each plant’s needs. Some plants might need frequent light watering, while others prefer occasional deep soaks. Light requirements also vary, with some plants loving full sun and others thriving in the shade. Find what works best for your garden and give those plants the care they need. And if you're growing indoors, replicate outdoor conditions with a grow light and regular watering. Just be sure to check the specific needs of each plant.

Tips For Gardening With Limited Space

Here’s the good news: Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to gardening. Gardens can thrive anywhere with the right conditions! Kirsten shared some great tips for getting started in a small space:

You can grow your own food in almost any conditions, as long as you are planting what will do well in those conditions — and there is a plant for almost every situation! – Kirsten Lie-Nielsen

“You can supplement light with a grow light, and space can be tiny but still effective,” says Kirsten, who uses a grow light in her kitchen with great results. Grow lights are a fantastic option because they extend your 'daylight' hours during the dark winter months (a necessity in places like Maine), and they help plants grow straight up instead of leaning towards a window, reducing the need for frequent rotation. Shelves with lights can also quadruple your growing space by allowing you to garden vertically. “Or, just start small! Plant a few favorites, and it will still be a rewarding experience. Regardless of how much space you have, make sure to check how big your plants will be when fully mature. It’s not fun to realize too late that you’ve planted something way too big for its spot.”

As Kirsten points out, many people turn small plots into thriving gardens, and with a little research, you can find plants that love growing right next to each other or work on a succession planting plan. “You can grow your own food in almost any conditions, as long as you are planting what will do well in those conditions — and there is a plant for almost every situation!”