6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Your Garden
Starting a garden can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it's essential to avoid making common mistakes that could waste your time, money, and effort. In this blog post, we will discuss six common mistakes that beginner gardeners make and how to avoid them.
Growing Wrong Varieties - One of the most common mistakes is trying to grow plants that do not thrive in your zone. To be successful, you need to choose plants that grow well in your area.
Using Wrong Fertilizers - Organic gardening is all about feeding the soil, not the plants. Using chemical fertilizers not only affects the taste of your produce but also kills the microbiology in the soil. Use organic compost, manure, and worm castings to feed the soil.
Planting Too Early - Planting too early is a mistake that can easily be avoided. Wait until the weather warms up before planting summer vegetables. Plant when the nighttime temperature is about 45 degrees Fahrenheit and at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
Planting Too Close - When starting, it's common to plant too close together. Plants need their space to grow and compete for nutrients and sunlight. Follow guidelines on row and plant spacing to ensure your plants have enough space to grow.
Overwatering - Overwatering is a common mistake and can cause your plants to drown. Scratch at least two to three inches below the soil to see if it's moist. Use a moisture meter to determine the percentage of moisture in the soil. Water only when the moisture level is below 30 to 40 percent.
Using Chemical Pesticides - Using chemical pesticides can kill the beneficial insects, such as bees and ladybugs, that help pollinate your plants. Use neem oil and pure castile soap to spray your plants, which is an organic solution that works well.
By avoiding these six common mistakes, you'll be on your way to a successful and fruitful garden. Remember to choose the right plants for your zone, feed the soil, plant at the right time, give your plants enough space, water appropriately, and use organic pest control methods. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to produce the best-tasting fruits and vegetables you've ever grown. Happy gardening!