Thursday, 9 August 2018

Gardening: How to get started

Yes, you can build your own fine vegetable or flowering garden. But it cannot be done without hard work, dedication, and fundamental knowledge of what it takes to succeed in this hobby. Here are some surefire ways to get started properly. 

Image source: Pixabay.com 

Have a solid idea of what you want 

Is it a veggie or flower garden that you like to have? Or do you want to grow herbs of various kinds? If it’s flowers, do you want annuals, perennials, or a mix of the two? Have a concrete idea of what will work best for you and your resources. It’s best to always start small, succeeding a little instead of failing big time. 

Choose a good spot 

Pick a place where the vegetables or most flowers will get the six hours or so of full sun every day that they need. Watch how the sun moves across this selected space. Research, however, on plants that are able to tolerate shade, or ask the local garden center how much sun a particular plant needs. Put the garden somewhere close to a water source, too. 

Water with the right amount 

Plants are made up mostly of water and they need it for the photosynthesis that provides them energy for growth. Avoid watering seed-starting mix, for instance, from the top, as that courts disease and may damage sprouts. To keep water supply steady, consider “self-watering” seed-starting kits as well. 

Mulch! 

Keep weeds out and water in by covering the soil with a few inches of mulch, which are available in different types such as pine needles and bark chips. 

Maintain it with love 

Water when necessary (but don’t overdo it), pull weeds before they grow, and fertilize properly. Stop and smell the flowers, of course, and rest assured your garden is on its way with enough love and dedication. 

Image source: Pixabay.com 

Jonah Engler Silberman from Brooklyn, New York, enjoys cooking, meditation, and other healing activities. He lives mindfully to give his best in all his pursuits and subscribes to the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. Learn more on this page.