
Tending a garden is a relaxing past-time that can also serve as therapy. It is well worthwhile to research the best soil and tools to use and learn when and how to plant your seedlings or seeds for your gardening project. The tips you will find below will guide you through those questions and more.
Transform the handles of your tools into convenient measuring devices. It is possible to utilize tools with long handles, such as rakes, hoes and shovels, as measuring sticks. Just lay your tool down on the floor then lay a yardstick beside the handle. Then, transfer the measurements to the handle using a permanent marker. When the need arises to measure something while in your garden, the measuring tool you need will literally be “on hand,” sketched into the handles of your tools.
Analyze the soil before you even get started with working in a garden. Many nurseries offer a soil analysis service, which will tell you what nutrients your soil is lacking and what you can do about it. You can often find Cooperative Extension offices that provide this service, which can help to make your garden flourish.
If you are going to be doing some gardening, watch out for stink bugs, especially in the fall! This insect will gladly devour your tomatoes, beans, and peppers, as well as a variety of other fruits. If you do not check, they do a lot of damage to plants so try to get rid of them if you can.
Come up with a horticulture plan before planting anything. It will be easy to remember where each plant is when sprouts start to shoot up the following spring. It’s also a good way to keep smaller plants from getting swallowed up by the rest of your garden.
Make sure to protect your tender shrubs from the elements. Delicate shrubs that are sitting in pots should be sheltered from the cold weather. Tie together the tops, and then use a sheet or blanket to cover the wigwam loosely. This method is much better than wrapping the plant in plastic, as it allows air to circulate, which can prevent rotting.
In order to start the best garden possible, remember that you should always start with the seeds and not pre-purchased plants. Your can contribute to environmental soundness by beginning your garden with fresh seeds. It’s better for your garden, in particular, because transplants have high failure rates; whereas, sprouting a seed and growing a plant in the same conditions is better. Additionally, it’s better for the environment, because the plastic pots used by most greenhouses are generally not recycled and are cluttering landfills.
Think about berry-producing trees that are green year round for your garden. Your yard will then have bright spots of color all year round, which is especially cheerful in the winter when all of your other flora is bare or colorless. Other plants that boast of winter berries include: Holly, Snowberry and Winterberry.
If you have a vegetable garden, it can be quite difficult to decide what to do about pest control. Since you are growing the vegetables for your own consumption, you want to stay away from pesticides. Instead of resorting to these harmful chemicals, you can keep garden pests at bay simply by paying close attention. If you happen to notice them early on, you can control them just by physically removing them from your plants with your hands.
Use a plant for a focal point. A focal point, in a strong garden design, will attract eyes and hold them there. Frequently, it will be a plant that’s very different from others in the neighborhood.
Horticulture is very rewarding, but only after one has the tools and know-how to do it effectively. Create aromatic flowers, delicious vegetables, sweet fruit and lush foliage with a relaxing, enjoyable hobby. Use the advice given to start on your road to a beautiful garden.