When you are ready to plant your first garden, you are likely to be confused. There is so much gardening advice out there that it may overwhelm you. Fortunately, your first attempt does not need to be unsuccessful. Here are some common beginner mistakes to avoid:
- Poor Garden Placement
This is the most common mistake for beginners. Spend time learning your yard before you start anything. The fact that you may want your garden in a specific location does not mean it is right.
One of the most important things to consider is the sun. Some parts of your yard will be sunnier than others. Consider the presence of large trees or buildings in the neighborhood that may block the sun.
Note that some plants need full exposure to the sun to thrive. Your front yard maybe more suited for them than your back yard.
Consider the ease of watering your garden as well. Your garden should be in a location where you can water it conveniently.
The garden should be easy to access for maintenance. If it is difficult to reach, you are likely to neglect it.
The perfect spot for your garden should balance convenient location, easy watering, and exposure to enough sunlight.
- Excessive Watering
Even though your plants need water, you should be careful not to water too much. Many beginners are so excited about their gardens that they water them every chance they get.
Excessive watering does not make your plants healthier. Instead, it can kill them. If the soil is constantly wet, it will promote the growth of mod which kills plant roots. It may prevent plants from setting deep roots. Plants without deep root systems are likely to die in a drought.
- Taking On Too Much
Gardening can be more complicated than it seems. Unfortunately, many beginners take up more than they can handle.
On the first few months, it is wise to focus on just a few plants Gardening is a skill that you need to develop over time. If you take on too much too soon, you are likely to fail and give up.
- Poor Soil Preparation
Even after picking the right location for your garden, you must prepare it. A soil test may be enough to tell you what needs to improve. Usually, soil has organic matter, water, air, and minerals. These elements affect the vitality and health of your plants. You can find a soil test kit at your local hardware store or garden center.
The test kits will determine the PH levels of your soil. Some tests may let you know the minerals missing from your soil. Add organic matter to your soil regularly to supplement it.
- Being Hard On Yourself
When you are a beginner, you are likely to make mistakes. Whether you forgot to water your garden on time or used too much fertilizer, use it as an opportunity to learn. Gardening is complicated and even the most strategic plans can fail.
Getting the help of professionals like Garden Club London is always a good idea. They will help transform your dreams into reality.