5 Tips for Beginner Gardeners
If you're new to gardening, the best thing to do is start small and choose the right plants. As with anything new, you will be learning constantly as you go, so this will give you a chance to implement any learnings into the next area you choose to grow in.
Choose plants that are suitable for your climate, the amount of sunlight your garden receives, and the type of soil you have. Herbs, tomatoes, and lettuce are great edible choices for beginners.
We’ve put our top 5 tips for new gardeners together below, but do share your tips in the comments, too!
Pay attention to soil quality Good soil is essential for healthy plants. Invest in good-quality soil and compost, and consider testing your soil to determine its pH level and nutrient content. Most plants prefer soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Do be careful not to overwater though, as this can lead to root rot. If the soil feels very wet from the last time it was watered it’s best to wait for it to dry out a little before watering again rather than get into a habit of watering every day regardless of how the soil and plant looks. TOP TIP: Most plants prefer to be watered at their base rather than from above, which can lead to fungal diseases.
Prune and fertilize as needed. Pruning your plants can encourage healthy growth and prevent diseases. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems, and cut back any overgrown branches. Fertilize your plants according to their specific needs, and be careful not to over-fertilize, which can harm your plants, so always read the guidance on the packaging first.
Be patient and observant. Gardening takes time and patience, so don't get discouraged if your plants don't grow as quickly as you expected. Be observant and take note of any changes in your plants' growth or appearance. This can help you identify any problems early on and take action to prevent them from getting worse.
Grow things you enjoy! You’re much more likely to want to spend the time troubleshooting any issues and caring for your garden or plants if you’re growing things you love. Choose plants you think are beautiful, are good for pollinators so you can enjoy wildlife in your garden, or are edible so you get to enjoy a harvest as a reward at the end of your hard work.
Most of all, enjoy experimenting in the garden and learning your new hobby! What are the gardening tips you would share with others who have just started this exciting new pastime?
