Spring has sprung and so havetariffs.

Start With Seeds, Not Seedlings

Buying seedlings from nurseries is convenient, but those costs add up fast.

Instead, start your garden from seeds, which are significantly cheaper.

Starting a garden

The Penny Hoarder

Plus, its satisfying to watch your garden grow from scratch.

Probably not as good as youd like.

It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.

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But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?

Ask one of these companies to help…

2.

Use Kitchen Scraps to Grow New Plants

You might be throwing away perfectly good plants!

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Many fruits and veggies canregenerate from scraps think green onions, lettuce and even potatoes.

Place scraps in water or soil and watch them sprout.

Its a zero-cost way to extend your grocery bill.

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3.

Make DIY Containers From Household Items

Forget pricey planters.

Use items you already haveyogurt cups, egg cartons or even old bootsas containers for your plants.

Just ensure they have drainage holes.

Repurposing everyday items keeps waste out of landfills and cash in your pocket.

Compost for Free Fertilizer

Skip the store-bought fertilizer and make your own compost at home.

All you need are food scraps (no meat or dairy) and yard waste.

Compost enriches your soil naturally and reduces household waste.

You dont need a fancy binjust a designated pile or DIY container.

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5.

These are great places to pick up supplies and get expert advice.

Check Facebook groups, libraries or local extension offices.

you’re free to even buy plants and seeds at farmers markets.

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6.

Harvest Rainwater to Cut Utility Costs

Watering can drive up your water bill, especially in the summer.

Capture rainwater in barrels or buckets for free irrigation.

Just double-check its legal in your area (some states have restrictions).

A basic DIY setup with repurposed containers can make a big difference.

Use Mulch to Reduce Watering and Weeding

Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds and adds nutrients.

You dont need to buy ituse leaves, grass clippings or shredded newspaper instead.

Its an eco-friendly way to keep your garden thriving with minimal effort.

Shop Secondhand for Tools and Other Supplies

Dont be afraid to shop secondhand to get your garden started.

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8.

Start Small and Expand Gradually

Dont go all-in right away.

Start with a few plants and scale up as you gain confidence and learn what works.

This prevents waste and keeps your initial investment low.

Gardening is a learning process and small wins keep it fun and affordable.

(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)

You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…