Gardening is a very rewarding hobby. A well-tended flower garden can improve curb appeal whereas a successful vegetable garden yields nutritious foods. Gardens also encourage you to get more in touch with nature.
If you’re new to gardening, you might be intimidated by the process. There is a lot that goes into growing plants. Worry not! With these beginner gardening tips, you will be able to create your very own garden in easy, manageable steps.
1. Start small and simple.
While it’s fine to have a grand plan for an elaborate flower or vegetable garden, it’s best to start small if you’re a beginner. Large gardens take a lot of work and require more time to maintain. After you get a feel for gardening, it will be easier to expand the next season.
First, let’s think about what you’re planting. Flowers? Herbs? Vegetables? If you’re going for veggies or herbs, choose plants that you and your family will use. Going for flowers instead? Decide whether you want annuals or perennials. You can also do a combination of both, but it’s best to start small.
You’ll also want to get familiar with your “Plant Hardiness Zone.” These zones will give you a better idea of what plants will thrive in your zone.
2. Choose the right location.
Location is everything when it comes to a garden. Pick a flat spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day and has access to a water spigot. Familiarize yourself with the size and spacing needs for the plants that you chose. Make sure there’s enough space!
I highly recommend starting a garden in an area that you see regularly. It’s easy to forget about a garden or put off the work. This unfortunately leads to failure.
3. Clear the ground and test your soil.
Once you know what you’re planting and where you want to plant it, it’s time to break ground! The sod needs to be removed, which you can do by cutting it out with a spade. Just slide a sharp spade under the sod, cut it into pieces, and remove it. Toss it into your compost to break down.
If you’re getting a head start on your garden in the fall, you can add newspaper or brown paper bags to the surface of the sod to smother the grass instead of cutting it out. Cover the area with at least 5 layers of newspaper or paper bags. Next, cover the paper bags with a 2-3 inch layer of compost. In about four months, the soil should be ready for planting, but you should test it first. Click here for gardening tips for fall.
You want fertile soil to grow strong, healthy plants. Figure out the status of your soil by doing a soil test through your county’s local office. You can call and request more information. They usually send test kits that you’ll fill with soil and mail in. In about two weeks you’ll receive your results.
Your results will tell you about your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. They usually include information on how to fix it for better planting success. If you don’t want to go through the county, there are DIY kits at garden centers.
4. Prep the soil and purchase your plants.
Once you’ve had your soil tested, you can start prepping the beds. You’ll want to turn the soil so that the plant’s roots can penetrate more easily. I recommending digging as opposed to tilling. Tilling disturbs the natural microbiome of the soil. Digging is more gentle.
When the soil is slightly moist (not wet), use a spade to turn the top 8 to 12 inches of soil. Mix in compost and other organic material (peat moss, decayed leaves, grass clippings, manure, etc.).
Next, start purchasing your plants.
You can start from seeds or choose transplants at your local nursery or garden center. Plants like lettuce and sunflowers are great for those who wish to grow directly from seeds. If you’re going the seed route, you can sow seeds indoors in small containers. You can start them up to 6 weeks before the last frost in your area.
Be sure to read the packets for more information on when to plant, how deep to plant, and how far apart to space plants.
Once you bring your plants home or start your seeds, be sure to keep them moist (not wet) until you can get them in the garden.
5. Plant and maintain your garden.
Dig holes in the garden (based on the seed packets or plant tags) when you’re ready to put the plants in the ground. This should usually be done when the soil is at a certain temperature. Check your seed packets or look online for more information on your specific plants.
Remove your plants and/or seedlings from their containers. This is easiest to do when the soil in the containers is somewhat moist. Push up from the bottom while holding the plant at the strongest point on the stem.
If the plant is root-bound, break up some of the soil and untangle the roots a bit before transferring the root ball to the ground. Push soil around the roots and then give it a good soaking with water.
More About Watering
Seedlings should be watered daily. Transplants should be watered about every other day. As plants grow and establish their roots, you can slow down the watering.
Once your plants are established, you’ll only need to water them if the soil is dry three to four inches down. You can stick a finger to feel the soil next to your plants. If it feels dry and crumbly, it’s time to give plants a good soaking. It’s best to water plants in the morning to prevent evaporation.
The “Secret” To Gardening
The biggest “secret” to gardening is to tend to it. Water it when it needs watering. Pull weeds before they become established. Mulch will help to keep the moisture in the garden and will prevent weeds from growing through. There are different mulches for different purposes. Many organic mulches will decompose and improve the soil.
Remove dead or dying vegetation to prevent disease. Pick off damaging insects or hose them off (you can also use insecticidal soaps that are safe for plants).
Keep your plants strong by providing them with stakes or garden cages. Harvest vegetables when they’re ready. And don’t forget to sit in your garden sometimes and admire the delicious fruits of your labor. Learn more about best fruits to grow in a garden.
Planting a garden is more than getting dirty. It’s a way to connect with nature and reap the rewards of your efforts. While it’s intimidating, it’s not difficult with the above tips. Whether you’re looking to start a fragrant flower garden or delicious vegetable garden, you can make your dreams a reality. Click here to find the best vegetables to grow in a garden.