Smart Spending Ideas: Simple Gardening for More Food, Less Fuss

Simple Gardening Ideas: Less Fuss, More Growth

Are you finding that simple gardening ideas aren’t as simple as “they say”?
Is gardening not as zen-like as you hoped because of all the endless options and conflicting advice?
You’re not alone. I’ve been there, too.

Gardening doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools,

you can simplify the process and focus on growing more food with less fuss.

Why Gardening Feels Complicated

No wonder gardening can make your head spin

There’s so much to learn, experiment with, and worry about in your garden. One season, everything flourishes; the next, it’s a struggle. Why? Because every garden is different, and every season is different.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are universal basics to get you started. And guess what? You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to succeed. Let me guide you through the options.

Trust the Seed AND Supplies

Simple gardening ideas begin with recognizing that gardening has become big business. But the truth is, all you need are a few versatile tools—and to trust that the seed knows what to do.

Gardening has turned away from basics and become overly complex and commercialized. This blog is here to counteract that, bringing the focus back to simple steps that work.

There’s so much more to share from my years of experience, so keep coming back for fresh inspiration!

Trust the seed for simple gardening success—nature provides everything we need, no fancy gadgets required.

The Main Tools You Need

After years of trial and error (and wasted money on unnecessary gadgets), I’ve learned that you only need three simple tools for an in-ground garden. For raised bed and container gardeners, you’ll need a few more supplies to grow your own food, and we’ll get there. But for now, I encourage you to look at your lawn (if you have one) from a cost perspective. Wink, wink... My first suggestion is always to consider in-ground gardening—it’s often the most cost-effective and straightforward way to get started. There are many ways to garden, and I urge you to think about this option. Want to chat about it? Keep reading to find out how!

Renters, gardeners with rocky ground, balcony growers, and those with north-facing or shaded spaces—there are solutions for you, too. I’ve even included a hand tool just for your needs! If there’s a will, there’s a way! Your setup may need a bit more creativity, but the seed remains the same. 🌱

Start with these few tools, and you’re set. Really! It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few basics, and you’re on your way. Ready for the boring (but essential) tools I recommend? They’re basic, sturdy, and multipurpose—perfect for getting you started with minimal fuss.

A Sturdy Spade Shovel – My go-to for digging and moving soil. After trying countless types, the boring, wooden spade remains my favorite. Different shapes and sizes are tempting, but a simple spade works for everything.

Must-Have Garden Fork – Perfect for aerating soil and harvesting potatoes. When my shovel disappears (you know the feeling!), I rely on my fork for digging and lifting. It’s gentle enough for loosening soil around carrots without damage. It’s how I “steal a meal” with confidence!

To Rake or Not to Rake? (Optional) – Great for leveling soil or clearing debris. I’ve tested many types, but the simple, straight-head wooden rake wins every time. It’s reversible and versatile. While not essential, it’s a handy tool to have.

Small Hand Trowel- One is enough… unless you lose it! A sturdy hand trowel can tackle most container gardening tasks—digging, transplanting, even mixing soil. And let’s not forget, I’ll encourage you to avoid buying soils and encourage In ground if at all possible.

In the video, I’ve shared a few more basic tips—the shovel, fork, and rake are all you need for the ground. There are many other simple gardening ideas I’ll be showcasing, so come back for more. But first, grab your Starter Tool Kit to get those simple gardening ideas flowing.

Click the image above to watch the full video on YouTube!

That’s it! Keep it basic. These are the only tools you truly need to get started. Over time, you might find you want a few extras, ( we will get there!) but starting with the basics keeps things fuss-free and affordable.

Pro Tips:

• Wooden handles and metal heads last the longest—simple and durable.

• If you’re using containers, small hand tools will do the trick.

• Every tool in my collection is broken in some way, and I love them even more for it! Bent fork tine? It’s now better at loosening compact soil. Shortened rake handle? The perfect height for control. Don’t fret over imperfections—they might just be a blessing in disguise.

Stay inspired! Don’t miss the latest gardening tips, simple ideas, and fresh inspiration — follow along on social media or explore the resources and services available from Eat Local Education.

More Food, Less Lawn

Starting an in-ground garden? Let’s get you started with the only items you truly need. The rest are wants, and that’s okay—but focusing on the essentials first will make your gardening journey less complicated and less costly upfront.

Each tool has been tried, tested, and loved for its versatility and durability. With these basics, you’ll be growing your own food in no time.

Stay tuned for my next blog, where I’ll share more tools that are helpful but not essential. Gardening is a journey, and adding extras as you go is part of the fun!

This is my 'messy by intent' garden. 

Five years ago, this was just lawn. Now, it’s a thriving garden—proof that with time, effort, and simple tools, your space can transform.

Gardening Made Simple

You don’t have to spend a fortune to grow food.

• Stick to the Basics

• Trust the Seed

• Enjoy the Journey

This is just one part of the “More Food, Less Fuss” way.

There’s Always More to Say…

Gardening is a journey, and we’re just scratching the surface of the More Food, Less Fuss approach. If you’re ready to take the next step toward simple gardening, you’ve got options:

• Grab your free Simple Garden Starter Kit to kick things off.

• Join the Thrive Tribe community for monthly live sessions and exclusive tips.

• Book a one-on-one coaching session to get personalized guidance and fast-track your garden goals.

• Want to document your experiments? There's a place for that too!

  Whichever path you choose, you’ll have the support and resources you need to grow your garden with less fuss and more food!

Because there’s always more to say, until next time, happy gardening—even if it’s snowing where you are.

Erin
A simple gardener, sharing simple pictures of real-life gardens and ideas—showcasing that gardening doesn’t need to be perfect to be rewarding. Simple to the core!