Garden Meditation Day is May 3rd. This is the perfect day to decompress from all the chaos and stress in your life. It’s a day where you are encouraged to take time out for yourself, surrounded by the beauty of a garden. Whether that garden is in your backyard, on your balcony or in a public space, the idea is to just relax and take in all the beauty and peace around you.

This is also a great day to consider starting your own garden. If you think you need a green thumb to be a gardener, don’t worry. Gardening is easier than you think, plus it can save you money. When you grow your own food, you have extra money in your budget to help pay off debt and save for the future.

Start a Garden on a Budget

You don’t need a lot of money to start your own garden. Although it’s true that you could spend a bundle at a garden supply store, that’s not necessary. And, if one of your goals is to save money, you definitely want to use these ideas for starting a garden on a budget.

Save Your Own Seeds

You don’t even have to buy seed packets to have your own garden. When you eat vegetables, save the seeds and plant them. You can plant your own tomato seeds, cucumber seeds, zucchini seeds, and more. All you need to do is to plant the seeds right away. You don’t even need to dry them out before planting.

Start Seedlings in Egg Cartons

Egg cartons are perfect for starting seedlings. Just fill each hole with potting soil and place the seeds beneath a little bit of soil. Water and set in a dark place where the seeds will have a chance to grow.

Replant Seedlings in Pots

Once your seedlings are stronger and have outgrown the egg carton, replant them in pots. Plastic plant pots are readily available at dollar stores and thrift stores. All you need to do is place them in a sunny location and water regularly.

Save Water For Plants

You can even save on your water bill. Instead of letting tap water run down the drain, place a large bowl in your sink and save the water. Put it in a bucket for later use watering your plants. You can also water plants with water that you’ve boiled vegetables, potatoes or pasta in. Just be sure to let it cool down before watering your plants with it.

Learn How to Can Food

Don’t let any of your harvest go to waste. Learn how to can so that you can store your excess food inside of Mason jars. You can also learn how to freeze various vegetables for use later in soups and stews.

Be Healthier With Gardening

Did you know that gardening also helps save you money on healthcare? You and your family will be more likely to eat more fresh foods when you have the pride of growing them yourself. And studies have shown that integrating more whole foods into your diet translates to fewer illnesses and fewer doctor appointments. Not only that, but the exercise you get from gardening will help your physical health, and the meditative enjoyment you get from gardening will help release stress and improve mental health.

With a little effort, you could be enjoying the fruits of your labor in a few short months. Let Garden Meditation Day inspire you but you can destress with your garden any day that works for you. Saving money from your budget on food with your own garden is always a good idea.