How much can I save by growing my own vegetables?

According to the National Gardening Association, a 200 sq ft garden can yield $500-$1,200 worth of produce annually. After costs, net savings are $300-$800. Tomatoes, lettuce, and beans offer the best ROI.

What basic supplies do I need to start gardening?

Basic supplies include: trowel ($10), hoe ($15), watering can ($8), gloves ($5) - about $30-$80 for tools, plus $20-$50 for seeds and fertilizer. This calculator accounts for these one-time costs.

Which vegetables are easiest and most profitable to grow?

Best for beginners: lettuce (30 days), cherry tomatoes (60 days), peppers (70 days), beans (50 days), cucumbers (60 days). These have few pest problems and high yields, perfect for new gardeners.

Free Online Gardening Cost Calculator

Plan your home gardening budget, calculate costs for seeds, fertilizer, tools and water bills. Estimate ROI of growing vegetables and flowers. Pure frontend. | No registration · Data never leaves your device

Zero dependencies · Works offline

🔢 Input Parameters

Garden Area (sq ft)

Growing Season (months)

Seeds/Seedlings Cost ($)

Soil & Fertilizer ($)

Tools Cost ($) (One-time)

Monthly Water Cost ($)

Expected Harvest Value ($) (Total produce value)

📊 Results

📖 How to Use

This gardening cost calculator analyzes the ROI of growing your own food:

Step 1: Enter Garden Size

In square feet. Balcony gardens are typically 30-50 sq ft, yard gardens 100-300 sq ft.

Step 2: Set Growing Season

Typically 4-8 months for spring/summer. Adjust based on your climate.

Step 3: Enter All Costs

Seeds/seedlings, soil & fertilizer, tools (one-time), and monthly water cost increase.

Step 4: Set Expected Harvest Value

Estimate the retail value of vegetables/flowers you'll harvest this season.

Step 5: View ROI Analysis

See total cost, net return, and ROI percentage to decide if it's worth the investment.

💡 High-ROI Vegetables

Cherry Tomatoes: 3 plants yield 20-30 lbs, grocery price $3-5/lb, ROI can exceed 300%
Salad Greens: Fast 30-day harvest, cut-and-come-again, virtually pest-free
Herbs: Basil, mint, cilantro cost $3-5 per tiny pack at stores - grow for pennies
Beans: High yield, easy maintenance, among the most productive per square foot

🌱 Gardening Cost Calculator