Empty garages offer some of the most untapped potential for renovation available in a house, but looking for ways to best utilize the empty space can take the garage owner on a detour. For those people who have a three-car garage but only have two vehicles, a garage is another room waiting to be put to good use. Usually though, garages are merely holding pens for tools, out-of-season decorations, or typical household equipment that you wish to keep out of site and out of mind. If your garage is more of a closet than a workspace, perhaps it's time to make a change in how its being used.
After clearing up any unnecessary clutter there are any number of options for garage-owners to use to more fully take advantage of the space. One of the greenest and most rewarding options is to turn the garage into an indoor garden. This works especially well for people who have always longed to grow their own food, but either do not have the yard for it or live in a less-than-temperate climate. Here are some easy tips for transforming your barren garage into a bountiful and beautiful garden:
Lights
Photosynthesis is more than merely a $10 word. It's the method that plants use to convert light into energy, energy which they use to grow and bear edible foodstuff like fruits or vegetables. Therefore, ample lighting is naturally one of the most important parts of keeping plants alive. If the garage does not have adequate windows that provide a good source of sunlight, full-spectrum grow lights are the best option for giving the plants all the energy needed to reach their full potential.
Heating
Maintaining a stable climate in the garage is important. Using a space heater or some solar lamps helps control the temperature in the garage. By keeping it slightly above freezing, this will ensure that the plants have just enough heat to fully grow. Keep in mind, though, that some plants, such as peppers and tomatoes, need a bit more heat than others.
Water
Like all living things, plants need water. Since most garages have concrete floors and drains, spilling a little water from the garden hose or watering can is no big deal. Just make sure to keep the plants watered according to their individual needs.
Planters
Bins, either hanging from the wall or strategically arranged around the area, provide ideal containers for plants to crack their seeds and stretch their stalks. Using the right kinds of shelving units to hold the assortment of soil-filled bins, and planters can assist in optimizing the garage's vertical space, while keeping the floor clear of clutter.
Organization
Once the indoor garden is up and running, it's wise to keep the garage organized in order to maintain a semblance of control in the wild area. By keeping seeds and gardening tools properly organized in storage units and work stations, it allows you to focus on making your thumb as green as possible.
With a little elbow grease and determination, anyone can convert their garage into a veritable garden and reap the literal fruits (and vegetables) of their labor.
