Gardening at home became popular in the 1970s when people embraced self-sufficiency and wanted fresh produce without paying grocery store prices. Many of their tricks and techniques are still budget-friendly today! With these vintage gardening tips, you can grow your own veggies, save money, and enjoy the satisfaction of fresh produce straight from your backyard.
Start with Seeds, Not Seedlings
Back in the ’70s, people started most plants from seeds instead of buying pricey seedlings. Seeds are cheaper, come in a wider variety, and often grow stronger in your specific soil. Plus, starting from scratch allows you to cultivate a much larger garden for a fraction of the cost.
Compost for Free Fertilizer
Homemade compost was a go-to fertilizer before commercial products were popular. It’s free, environmentally friendly, and enriches the soil with natural nutrients. Start with kitchen scraps, yard waste, and leaves to create nutrient-rich compost that’ll make your garden thrive without store-bought fertilizer.
Reuse Containers for Seedlings
Gardeners in the ’70s loved repurposing everyday items, like yogurt cups and egg cartons, to start seedlings. Small containers are perfect for early growth, and reusing them keeps costs down while reducing waste. Just make sure to poke drainage holes in the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Companion Planting for Pest Control
Companion planting—growing specific plants together to deter pests and enhance growth—was a smart, chemical-free way to keep plants healthy. For example, marigolds ward off insects, while basil keeps mosquitoes away and enhances the flavor of tomatoes. These natural partnerships save money on pesticides and boost your garden’s productivity.
Use Newspaper for Weed Control
Before weed barriers were widely available, gardeners used layers of newspaper to keep weeds at bay. Lay sheets of newspaper around plants, wet them down, and cover them with a bit of soil. This barrier prevents weeds from sprouting and eventually decomposes, adding nutrients to your soil.
Save Seeds for Next Season
Saving seeds from one year to the next was standard practice in the ’70s. After harvesting, dry and store seeds from your favorite plants, like tomatoes, peppers, or beans. Seed-saving is free, sustainable, and allows you to keep growing plants that thrive in your specific environment.
Water Early in the Morning
Watering in the morning minimizes evaporation, meaning your plants get more moisture before the heat of the day. This method is a win-win: it conserves water and keeps your plants hydrated. It was a common practice in the ’70s, and it’s still a smart way to save on water today.
Make Your Own Mulch
Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and improves soil health over time. In the ’70s, gardeners often created their own mulch using grass clippings, leaves, or even shredded newspaper. Homemade mulch is free and keeps soil healthier without commercial products.
Grow Vertical to Save Space
Using trellises, stakes, or fences to grow vertically was an efficient way to maximize garden space in small areas. Vegetables like cucumbers, peas, and beans thrive on vertical structures, making it easier to grow more food in less space. Plus, vertical gardening reduces pests and increases air circulation, keeping plants healthy.
Choose Perennial Vegetables and Herbs
Perennials come back year after year, reducing the need for annual replanting. In the ’70s, common perennial choices included asparagus, rhubarb, and herbs like chives and mint. Planting perennials saves time, money, and effort each season while providing a continuous harvest.
Recycle Kitchen Scraps as Fertilizer
Using banana peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds as garden fertilizer was a popular DIY solution in the ’70s. Eggshells add calcium, coffee grounds enrich soil, and banana peels provide potassium. It’s a cost-effective way to nourish your plants naturally and put kitchen scraps to good use.
Preserve the Harvest
In the 1970s, preserving food was a staple practice for home gardeners. Freezing, canning, or drying produce extends your harvest and lets you enjoy home-grown veggies all year. Pick up some jars or freezer bags, and you’ll have garden-fresh ingredients even when it’s out of season.
Swap Seeds with Friends and Neighbors
Seed-swapping was common in community gardens and among friends in the ’70s, allowing people to grow a variety of plants without buying new seeds. Trade extras with neighbors or join a local gardening group to diversify your garden while keeping costs low.
By bringing these timeless gardening tips into your routine, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of home-grown produce and save money at the grocery store. Plus, these methods are sustainable, helping you reduce waste and make the most of each planting season. Enjoy your garden!
