Plants By Type
Tips For Beginning Gardners
By Tammy Sons
Gardening 101- Some Useful Tips For Beginners
Growing plants and trees is a very rewarding activity as it yields wonderful results. No matter what your reasons are, you can definitely expect glorious outcome of your hard work and labor. Experienced gardeners try out new things and techniques in the garden that help in saving money while getting great results at the same time. Beginners are generally reluctant due to lack of experience. However, there are many simple tips that can make your task easier, if you are a novice gardener.
Try Planting Seeds, Plants and Trees On Your Own
Planting trees, plants, shrubs and seedlings on your own is an excellent way of getting to know the plants and understanding their growth pattern. If you plant them yourself, then you would research and read about the plants to ensure that they thrive. This way you will not only learn about different varieties but will also save a lot of money on landscaping services. Growing plants and trees is not a daunting task and anyone can successfully grow them if the plants are suitable for the desired location.
Consider Factors like Climate, Sunlight, Drainage and Site
Climate, water and light are some of the basic elements, and different have different requirements. Not all plants enjoy full sunlight, drought conditions or wet soil. Each species is particular about its requirements and they might differ slightly or completely from the other plants that you have on your list. It is crucial to analyze the soil, climate, site, drainage, etc. of the area and then choose the plants wisely so that they flourish. It is advisable to refer to the USDA Planting Zone Map, which is easily available on the internet, for choosing the best plants for your garden.
Learn To Identify Common Plant Diseases, Pests and Insects
Identifying plant diseases, pests and insects are also equally important for a gardener. Some pests and insects when present in less numbers, do not pose as a threat to your plants. Many pests live in harmony with the nature and they are not harmful. So, it is important to know about such insects and pests. Moreover, if you know about the common diseases and harmful pests, it would be easier for you to diagnose and control the situation without letting it get out of your hands. Some large insects help in controlling nasty and destructive pests organically as these larger ones tend to feed on them. Lady beetles, mantids, ground beetles, green lacewing and ladybugs are some effective insects that help in controlling other harmful pests.
Make Your Own Compost Pile In The Garden
Compost or decayed organic matter is very good for plants as it is rich in several nutrients. Most of the plants require good quality, healthy and rich soil to perform their best. The quality of the soil can be improved to a great extent by adding organic matter, manure or compost. Most of the people prefer buying compost from the market but it is quite easy to make your own compost pit or pile. This way you will be able to utilize table scraps and leftovers in your garden efficiently without spending a dime. Fruit peels, vegetable peels, leftover food, dried leaves, green prunings and other yard waste can be used to make compost. Plastic compost bins are available in the market for this purpose however; it is not necessary and totally depends on you. If you want to start a pile or a pit then you can do so in a suitable corner.
Use Organic Mulches For Best Results
Organic mulches not only protect the soil from erosion and drying out too quickly but they also serve other purposes. Organic mulches improve the soil quality over a period of time as it decomposes and provides essential nutrients to the soil. They drain easily and provide good air circulation to the roots. Shredded bark, cocoa bean hulls, hay, hops, compost, lawn clippings, straw, peat moss, pine needles, sawdust and wood chips are some excellent organic mulches that can be used on the garden. Make sure not to apply a thick layer of mulch on the soil, as it would block sun, air and even water to quite an extent.
Apart from these useful tips, you will also have to keep a regular check on the plants to be sure that they are growing normally. If you tend to them properly and put in your efforts, then you will definitely be rewarded with a lively and attractive garden.