Have you noticed that the grass literally seems greener on your fence’s other side? You might imagine that all your neighbors have some top-secret formula that keeps their grass and garden looking so much better than yours. Truthfully, there is no super-secret formula for a gorgeous garden. All you need is the knowledge about how to care for your plants the right way. Start learning more about gardening right here with these tips.
You should always take careful note of the recommended watering schedule for your plants; too much or too little can be damaging. Too much water rots the roots, but a plant without water can’t thrive. Be vigilant about checking the soil’s moisture level and adjusting your watering patterns to get it just right.
Lay sod properly. Before laying sod, you have to make sure the soil is accurately prepared. Pull all the weeds and loosen the soil so the new roots can take easily. Compact the soil firmly but lightly, and make certain it is flat. Afterward, you want to make sure the soil is moistened. Lay the sod down in alternated rows, keeping the joints set off from one another. Firm the sod down to form a flat, even surface, and fill in any gaps between the sod with a little soil. Once it is in place, the sod requires frequent watering for at least two weeks. This is usually the amount of time it takes for the sod to grow roots, making it ready to grow seamlessly into place.
If you see mildew that is powdery, stay away from expensive chemicals to treat it. The best solution is mixing baking soda, a drop of liquid dish detergent and water together in a spray bottle. Spray this on your plants once a week until the mildew disappears. This solution is perfectly safe for your plants and gently treats mildew in a short amount of time.
Check the soil before you plant anything in your garden. A soil analysis report can be acquired for a nominal fee. You can then use the results of that report to determine if the soil needs to be modified before you begin planting. 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.
Knee Pads
A set of comfortable knee pads makes a great investment if your garden is full of plant material that stays low to the ground. Excessive time spent kneeling often results in significant stiffness and pain. Pick up a good pair of gardening knee pads to help cushion your knees.
You should start pea seedlings indoors instead of planting them outside right at the start. Seeds that are planted indoors will enjoy superior germination. They will also be stronger, and better equipped to resist disease and insects. Once the seedlings have become hardy enough to survive, you can transplant them to your outdoor garden.
Try placing evergreens that grow berries around your garden. These year-round berries will give the rest of your yard a much-needed pop of color, especially in the winter. These plants can help you get some color during the winter months: Winterberry, Common Snowberry, American Holly, and American Cranberrybush.
Pest control can present a challenge for successful vegetable gardening. One major benefit of growing your own produce is knowing that they haven’t been treated with pesticides and other harsh chemicals. Instead of resorting to these harmful chemicals, you can keep garden pests at bay simply by paying close attention. If you catch them early, you can take them off the plants by hand.
Most of these ideas are quite simple and require little advance skill. You just have to glean the knowledge and implement what you’ve learned. Monitor your plants carefully to assess whether you are getting the results you want from certain techniques or approaches. Do not waste time with something that does not look promising. With patience and love you can grow the best garden in your neighborhood.
Originally posted 2013-04-23 06:44:20.
