I'm moving to Edinburgh next week and I have access to two gardens. The first one is smaller and faces northwest, which is private and secure, but I'm worried about the lack of sunlight. The second garden is southeast-facing, gets more sun, but is also more accessible and next to the road, which makes me worry about theft. I'm considering making 3-4 raised beds (4x4 ft) for growing salad greens, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes, along with some vertical towers for strawberries and planters for herbs. I also plan to use a mobile greenhouse for cucumbers and chili peppers, plus pots for blueberries and raspberries. I really want to maximize my food growth within the limitations of renting, but I'd love any advice regarding security concerns and growing food in Scotland since I'm quite new to this.
1 Answer
It sounds like you’ve got a solid plan! The north garden might be a bit tricky with sunlight, especially in winter. Most vegetables need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to thrive, so if the north side lacks that for months, it could hamper your growth. As for the security worries, theft can be an issue in more public areas, but you could consider using some pots with mobility to bring them inside at night or to a less accessible spot during the day. A tall fence or some creative plant arrangements could also help keep prying eyes (and hands) away!
Yeah, it really depends on the area’s vibe too. I live around Oxgangs and have had a decent experience. Just make sure you secure your tools and maybe invest in some sturdy containers that are less likely to disappear!