Some people just have a natural talent at making things grow and bloom beautifully- we call them green thumbs. These green thumbs have a yearning to dabble in the garden and spend weekends trying to nurture and cultivate flower, veggie or herb gardens. Most of us are not horticulturalists who can expertly design and create a garden in any conditions. So, what do you do if you are a beginner at gardening who would eventually like to be seen as a green thumb? Here are some of our tips to get started gardening this spring.
- Research – Do your homework online and at garden shops. Decide what types of flowers, vegetables, or herbs you want to grow and what your research tells you will grow well in your area. Also decide what type of garden you want. Do you want a raised flower garden, a wild perennial garden, a potted herb garden on your patio? These are all important things to decide before you invest any money or time into your garden project. Start small so you do not get overwhelmed.
- Choose your site – Once you have chosen the type of items you want to grow, you will need to assess the site in your yard. Watch over the course of a week or two where the sun exposure is, how the soil seems in the area and the proximity to a water source. Your research will tell you how much sun each type of planting will need whether it is full exposure or partial shade. Decide accordingly where you want you garden.
- Prepare the Soil – Clear the area of debris including rocks and sticks. Add new nutrient rich soil to the soil that is already there. Most soil needs a boost to help plantings grow well. To learn more about your soil, have a soil test done through a local landscaper or home improvement store.
- Buy some basic tools – Have these essentials on hand before you begin: spade; garden fork; soaking hose; hoe; hand weeder; and a basket for moving around mulch or soil.
- A word on watering – According to the experts at Better Home and Gardens, seedlings should never dry out, so water daily while they are small. Taper off as the plants get larger. After that, how often you need to water depends on your soil, how humid your climate is, and how often it rains. Plants are begging for water when they wilt slightly in the heat of the day. Water slowly and deeply, so the water soaks in instead of running off into the street. To minimize evaporation, water in the early morning. (Source: Better Homes and Garden)
Once you have started your garden and have begun to see if grow, you will see that it truly is a labor of love. Contact Peace of Mind with questions or to have us help you get the garden you have always wanted.
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