Anyone can enjoy the relaxing activity of organic gardening. However, for someone who does not have any experience with gardening, the thought of starting, or maintaining, a garden can be intimidating. So, how does a novice learn more about gardening? Read this article, and follow the helpful advice.
The first thing you can do to ward off garden pests is to ensure you are using healthy soil in your garden. The hearty plants that will grow in a garden with rich soil can resist the bugs and diseases that weak plants can’t withstand. If you start with balanced soil, your garden will produce healthy plants with the best yield. Refrain from using chemicals since these will increase the salt content of the soil.
Long plants that run up or around a fence or wall are often useful for masking ugliness. These climbing plants will help beautify an old fence, and they are fast workers too. Climbers can also be trained to grow and cover an arbor, and they will grow through or around existing trees and shrubs. Some must be tied onto a support, but a number of climbers attach to surfaces with twining stems or tendrils. Trusted variations of climbers are honeysuckle, jasmine, clematis, wisteria and climbing roses.
Before you begin to plant your garden you will need to check the soil. Have a soil analysis completed so you can know what you need to add to have soil which will fully support your garden. Cooperative Extension departments often offer this testing service. It is a worthwhile effort so a garden can be productive on the first year of planting.
Remove your garden’s weeds! If you’re not careful, weeds can take over your beautiful garden, ruining it. White vinegar is a pesticide-free way to battle weeds. White vinegar is a weed killer! Use a spray bottle full of white vinegar and you won’t have to use your hands.
Your plants should always be kept in an aerated, dry area. Plant moisture is a big attraction to both parasites and plant diseases. Fungus is a common problem when plants are allowed to remain damp. You can control fungi with the application of fungicide sprays. However, the area should be treated before you see the onset of any problems.
Mint is a very tasty herb that has a tendency to run wild in the garden if not kept in check. You can slow their growth rate by planting them in a garden container or large pot instead. You can then plant the container down in the ground if you like, but the walls of the container will hold the roots captive, and keep the plant from taking over your garden!
Give peas a head start by sprouting them indoors. By initially planting them indoors, the seeds tend to germinate better. You will also have hardy seedlings that will be able to resist disease and pests much better. When these pea plants are sturdy, you can place them outside in your garden.
Use common sense when watering your garden. Use a soaker hose to save time so that you do not have to water each plant individually with a hose nozzle, or a watering can that needs to be refilled repeatedly. Avoid damage to new plantings by keeping the water on low to move the water slowly through the soaker. Let it water your garden for a few hours, so you’re available to do other stuff.
It is by now obvious how beneficial and enjoyable organic gardening can truly be when you know how to approach it. Gardening is not only a beautiful art but also a rewarding and relaxing way to spend your time. These tips will help you get your organic garden started.