Published: 19 May 2025

Plants are such an important part of our environment. Everything we do in our gardens can do something positive. Whether that’s feeding pollinators, providing habitats, or simply making the world a slightly nicer place. But what many people don’t realise is that you don’t need a big garden to make a difference. In fact, with a simple planter, you can make a miniature garden to fit any space.

Six Steps for Making Your Own Mini Garden

Gather your supplies

Before you get growing, you’ll need a few important items.

  • Some form of planter – This can be anything you have to hand. Whether that’s a ‘proper’ plant pot, an unwanted cake tin, or an old wellie. All that matters is that you can fill it with soil.
  • Soil
  • Your choice of seeds

Prepare your planter

Depending upon what you’re using as a planter, you may need to add drainage holes in the bottom. In most cases, you’ll be able to use scissors for this. The important thing is that excess water can drain out, preventing your seeds from drowning. You can then add your soil to your container. Leaving a small gap beneath the top of the container so you can water without sloshing your soil away.

Add your seeds

Depending on your choice of seeds, you can now either sprinkle your seeds over the soil or gently press them into it. One of our favourite flowers for pots is erigeron (also known as seaside daisy). It grows quickly and will create a beautiful display in no time. It’s also very easy to care for and great for a range of pollinators. But you may also choose a wildflower mix, zinnias, marigolds, calendula, violas, cosmos, cornflowers, or herbs. Choose flowers that will give you pleasure as well as feed the bees.

Water your seeds

The best way to water seeds is not from above but rather to place the planter in a dish or shallow bucket of water. This will help draw the seeds down into the compost and avoid washing them away.

Position your planter

Once your planter is complete, the only thing left to do is to find it a home. Most seeds prefer a warm sunny spot, at least until they’ve started sprouting. Then, you can move them to their preferred conditions – sun or shade – once the seedlings have emerged.

Care for your plants

Flowers don’t need much care, but to keep them healthy, you will need to water them regularly. It can also help to feed them occasionally. Every plant is different though, so check your seed packet if you’re unsure how much water your planter needs. That way, you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labour for as long as possible.

Even the smallest pot plant can become a favourite feeding spot for butterflies and bees. So, if you’ve only got a little space – patio, balcony, or windowsill – you can still make a difference. And you can still enjoy the benefits of having your very own slice of nature.

Plan your visit to Holker Hall & Gardens today.