Just because you’re on wheels doesn’t mean you must forgo growing a garden. Technological advances allow you to grow fresh veggies and lush houseplants almost anywhere — including in an RV.
The key to a successful RV garden lies in choosing the right kind of plants and then paying attention to their specific needs. With some care, you can have a garden that enhances your living space and provides delicious, healthy food. Read on to learn how to grow an RV garden.
Gather Your Growing Supplies
When you grow in a formal garden, you need a spot with soil, light and water. Thriving in an RV isn’t that different, but you’ll need a few more supplies. Let’s start with the containers.
When you’re in an RV, space is at a premium. That means choosing containers with a footprint that won’t make your RV feel crowded.
You’ll also want to consider weight and strength. Clay or ceramic plants may need to be lighter for your home on wheels. Plus, they can crack and break easily if they shift during transit. Instead, consider lighter-weight containers made from plastic or fabric.
Next, you’ll also need a soilless potting media that’s made for container gardening. Different plants prefer different potting mixes, so research each plant’s preferences. For instance, tomatoes prefer a loose, well-draining mix that retains moisture. Choose a potting medium from perlite, vermiculite, bark or coco coir and sand.
Choose the Right Plants
Selecting low-maintenance, easy-care plants can help you build confidence as you grow an RV garden. Consider plants that can thrive in a variety of environmental conditions:
- Snake plants
- ZZ plants
- Pothos
- Air plants
- Ponytail palm
- Money tree
- Cacti
- Succulents
- Monstera
- Cast iron plant
- Philodendron
If you’re growing vegetables in containers, consider the following:
- Lettuces
- Snow or snap peas
- Cherry or grape tomatoes (choose small varieties like Tiny Tim)
- Radishes
- Microgreens
- Basil and other herbs
Light and Water
While some indoor plants — such as ZZ and snake plants — can handle low light conditions, most houseplants and vegetables need more sunlight. Choose a spot by a window that receives as much natural light as possible.
If your bathroom has a skylight, this might be a good choice. Consider purchasing or installing grow lights if you need help finding enough light. Pro tip: Humidity from the shower can be great for plants.
Pay careful attention to your plant’s water needs. When grown in containers, plants can dry out quickly. Check the specific water needs for each variety and ensure each plant container has adequate drainage holes.
Consider investing in a mini hydroponic garden. Find a model that simultaneously grows several lettuce, tomato, pepper, herb, or flower plants. Water and lights are built in, so you can develop an RV garden year-round.
Securing Your Plants
You don’t want your plants to move when you’re on the go. Choose bottom-heavy containers — or place gravel in pots — to help keep them still.
If you put your plants on a shelf, ensure there’s a border, so they don’t slide off. Consider putting plants in the bottom of the shower before you hit the road.
Be Aware of Regulations
If you plan to cross national or state borders on your travels, be aware of regulations and laws. For instance, if you travel from Canada to the U.S., you may have to declare your plants and show a phytosanitary certificate or import permit.
Even travelling between U.S. states may need fixing for your RV garden. For instance, Arizona, California and Florida all have strict rules about which types of plants, fruits and vegetables are allowed across state lines.
If you’ve got a green thumb, there’s no reason to leave your horticultural hobby behind. Growing an RV garden is a great way to make your rig feel like home. You’ll also enjoy that fresh produce when cooking on the road.
Protect Your Passion
As you combine your two passions, gardening and RVing, ensure you’re covered. Contact us today to learn how to protect your home away from home.
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