Gardening can be a little intimidating, especially for the novice. When starting this enjoyable hobby it is important to start out small and keep the basics in mind. The following tips on how to start your first garden will help you find your way in gardening, allow you to succeed and keep you motivated.
One crucial factor in gardening you need to understand is the soil. Your plants will grow much better in healthy, properly pH balanced soil. You need to either have your soil tested, or buy your own equipment to test your soil. You can usually go to your county extension office and they will test your soil, or some garden centers will. If you want to do it yourself, you can buy what you need. Once you find out more about your soil, you can add what you need to make it as healthy as possible.
The next thing that a plant needs is sunlight or shade. Some plants thrive in the shade and some prefer the sun. Some like the sun, but only for a little bit each day. You need to figure out where you want plants and what kind of light there is so you know what you can grow in that particular area.
Know What to Plant
Light and soil requirements are only two factors, you also need to consider your plant hardiness zone. This is an area that has been mapped out and numbered and then the number is given to the plants. This number is very helpful in choosing plants and also telling you when to plant them. If you live in an area that gets hot, a plant that doesn’t tolerate heat well will not do good in your garden. It’s important to select plants that have proven to be good growers in you plant hardiness zone.
When you start choosing plants, choose those that are easy to grow. Plants come in all types and there are plenty to choose from that are easy to grow and are great for beginners.
If certain plants aren’t happy where they are, don’t stress about it. Some plants are finicky, or maybe you have just got an unhealthy plant. Even expert gardened lose a plant or two every now and then.
Learn How to Start Your First Garden Using Local Knowledge
When you can, use plants that are native to your geographical location. These plants are generally easier to grow in your area and will give you the least trouble. Usually local garden centers will have a huge selection of native plants for you to choose from.
If you’re new to the area even ask your new neighbors for advice as this will also allow you to introduce yourself. They may well have experimented with many plant species and will probably have logged their success or failure in their trials.
The climate might be suitable for growing certain types of grass only. These varieties might seem alien to you at the moment but essential knowledge that you will need to learn if a lawn is high up in your priorities.
Apart from grass types, maintaining different types of lawns might be something worth taking into account. If you travel a lot, would a lawn survive without constant care? Would the spring lawn care schedule be the same in your new location as your previous one? All good questions that need to be concidered.
Gardening isn’t something you can start one day and see results the next day. It takes time for plants to grow and get used to their new home. Be patient in your gardening and enjoy the changes that each plant goes through. Before you know it, your plants will be amazing and you will be a proud gardener.
The advice presented here should help you go out and grow a successful garden. By taking time to prepare and giving your garden the care it needs, it will then thrive under your care.
How to start your first garden is just one of the first in a number of articles we will be adding to our blog. Other tips and advice will be posted as time permits. Keep yourself posted for more.