3 Tips for Beginner At-Home Gardeners

“At-home gardening has blossomed into a cultural phenomenon, transforming balconies and countertops into lush mini-farms,” says Matt McInnis, co-founder and creative director of North Spore. Based in Maine, North Spore aims to guide and equip gardeners (from beginner to expert) with the knowledge and tools to fulfill their mycological dreams. 

 “There’s a myriad of ways to embrace this green revolution, from traditional exterior gardens to indoor incubation chambers,” McInnis continues. “With easy-to-use tools, growing vegetables, herbs and, yes, even mushrooms, has evolved into an accessible and innovative pursuit for anyone, regardless of expertise or climate.” 

If you’re looking to get into at-home gardening, here are some things to consider. 

1. Consider Interior vs. Exterior 

“Choosing what to grow begins with deciding between an interior or exterior garden space,” McInnis shares. 

Interior gardens work well for those with limited outdoor space, and their controlled environment can yield plants quickly. For gardeners in Pennsylvania where the weather is often unpredictable, interior gardening also eliminates climate-related restrictions. 

On the other hand, exterior gardens have fewer space restrictions and can accommodate larger plants. For those with smaller indoor spaces, an exterior garden may be the way to go. 

2. Try Starting With Herbs 

Where can beginner at-home gardeners start? 

“Small interior herb gardens are a great addition to any home,” McInnis suggests. “They provide fresh herbs for cooking and enhancing flavors while reducing the need for store-bought alternatives. Herbs like basil, mint and rosemary are easy to grow, requiring minimal space and maintenance, making them perfect for beginners.” 

“One downside is that you may not be able to grow large amounts of produce similar to when growing outdoors,” he notes. “However, their compact size makes them a great first choice to add to your home before taking on bigger projects.” 

3. Give Mushrooms a Go 

Mushrooms can be another beginner-friendly gardening option that elevates dishes. McInnis notes their nutritional benefits, as they’re packed with vitamins, minerals and protein. 

“Cultivating mushrooms can feel daunting for beginners, requiring precise humidity, temperature and airflow,” he says. “Fortunately, modern tools have streamlined the process, transforming mushrooms into an accessible choice for gardeners.” 

Beginner-friendly mushrooms include oyster, shiitake and lion’s main, all of which are popular for their hardiness and versatility. The length of colonization for mushrooms varies, ranging from three weeks to nine weeks.