DIY Gardening Tricks Every Passionate Gardener Should Know

What tools do I need as a beginner gardener? 

As a beginner gardener, you’ll need basic tools like spades, trowels, hoes, hand pruners, watering cans or hoses, gloves, and kneeling pads. You’ll also want to get a wheelbarrow or cart to help transport materials around your garden.

How often should I water my plants? 

The frequency of watering will depend on several factors, such as the type of plants, the amount of light they receive, and the temperature in your area. Generally speaking, most plants should be watered deeply 1-2 times per week during dry spells.

What is the best way to mulch my garden? 

Mulching your garden is a great way to preserve moisture and prevent weed growth. The best way to mulch is to layer 2-4 inches of organic material, such as wood chips or straw, over your garden beds and pathways. Make sure to leave a few inches around the base of each plant stem for air circulation.

How often should I fertilize my plants? 

Fertilizing your plants helps them grow healthy and strong, but it’s important not to overdo it. Generally speaking, you should fertilize your plants every 4-6 weeks during their growing season. For best results, use a slow-release fertilizer formulated for the type of plants you are growing.

What is the best way to prune my shrubs and trees? 

Pruning your shrubs and trees is an important part of basic garden maintenance. The best way to prune is to use sharp bypass pruners or loppers to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches first. Then make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a bud so that new growth will sprout from the cut. 

What are some tips for dealing with weeds in my garden? 

Weeds can be a major headache for gardeners, but there are some steps you can take to reduce the number of weeds in your garden. Start by using mulch or ground covers to prevent weed seeds from sprouting. Then, hand-pull any weeds that do manage to grow and use an herbicide if necessary.

How do I choose the right soil for my plants? 

Choosing the right soil is key to growing healthy plants. The best soils have a good balance of air, water, and nutrients which allow roots to spread out and absorb what they need. Make sure you select a potting mix specifically designed for the type of plants you’re growing, as different plants have varying needs when it comes to soil. 

How much space should I leave between plants? 

The amount of space you’ll need to leave between your plants depends on the type of plants and their mature size. Generally speaking, you should leave at least 8-12 inches of space between each plant so they have plenty of room to grow. If growing in containers, make sure there are enough drainage holes for excess water to escape.

What are some tips for planting seeds? 

When planting seeds, it’s important to follow the instructions listed on the seed packet, as different varieties require different methods. Generally speaking, you’ll want to mix your soil with compost or manure before planting and sprinkle your seeds evenly across the surface before covering them lightly with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until the seeds sprout, then thin out any overcrowded seedlings. 

What are some tips for keeping my garden pest-free? 

Keeping pests away from your garden can be a challenge, but there are some steps you can take to reduce their numbers. Start by removing dead or damaged plants, as these can attract pests looking for a meal. Then introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and praying mantes that will help keep harmful bugs away. Finally, keep an eye out for signs of infestation and treat them promptly if necessary. 

How do I choose the right type of fertilizer? 

Choosing the right type of fertilizer is important to ensure healthy plant growth. Generally speaking, you’ll want to select an organic fertilizer that contains the right balance of nutrients your plants need and is designed for the type of plants you’re growing. Alternatively, there are all-purpose synthetic fertilizers that work well too. 

How should I water my garden? 

Watering your garden correctly is essential for healthy plant growth. The best way to water is using a slow trickle from a hosepipe or watering can so that the water has time to reach deep down into the soil without running off. Make sure not to over or underwater, as both can cause problems in your garden. 

What are some tips for container gardening? 

Container gardening is becoming increasingly popular due to its convenience and flexibility. To get started, choose the right sized container for your plants and use a potting mix specifically designed for container gardening. Then regularly water your plants, fertilize them as needed, and keep an eye out for any signs of pests or disease. 

How do I prepare my soil before planting? 

Preparing your soil before planting is essential to ensure healthy growth. Start by testing the pH levels of the soil so you can determine if it’s acidic, alkaline, or neutral. You may need to adjust the pH level accordingly with additives like lime, sulfur, or peat moss. Additionally, adding compost or manure to enrich the soil with nutrients is also recommended. 

What should I do to prevent soil erosion? 

Soil erosion can be a major problem and is caused when the top layer of soil is carried away by water or wind. To prevent this, keep the soil protected with a thick layer of mulch. Additionally, planting ground cover plants that hold onto the soil and reduce rainfall runoff can help too.