Practical Pointers for Developing a Truly Productive Garden is a blog we are delighted to share on gardening, a first for us but many of us a interest or some transferable passion for all outdoor works.
Emma Croft got her passion for gardening from her mom. Through good grades and a notable talent for golf, she got a scholarship to college, but the downside was that the campus was in a downtown area, and the limited access to gardens started to wear on her. She knew then that gardening was more than just a hobby, it was what she wanted to do for the rest of her life so she became a botanist. In winter, when she has plenty of time, she writes for her site, Get Gardening, to consolidate all the gardening resources in one place.
Are you ready to get your hands dirty? Gardening is an entirely worthwhile endeavor, but before you jump in with both feet, learn the ins and outs that optimize productivity. After all, you want it to flourish and not flounder!
Edibles, Beautifuls, or Both?
What will you grow in your garden? From roses to rhubarb, think about what your dream garden might look like, and start weeding through your options.
- Some vegetables are particularly beginner-friendly.
- You might want to focus on flower gardening, in which case you need to decide between annuals and perennials.
- Herbs are the best of both worlds—edibles that are pretty enough for the landscape.
- Don’t rule out planting some of each!
The Perfect Plot
Chances are you’re well aware of the basics needed for plants to grow—water, light, and soil. However, plants can be persnickety about how those needs are met, so start out by establishing the perfect garden plot.
- Learn about the practical aspects of a garden plot, like personal convenience and sun exposure.
- Decide what sort of layout appeals to you and works with your space.
- Keep in mind you can still grow a worthy garden with minimal room.
- The changes you make to your yard could actually help improve the value of your home (gardens could boost your home’s value by as much as 77%).
Daily Details
With plants and plot selected, you’ll need to contemplate not only the actual planting, but the ongoing maintenance of your new garden.
- Invest in the tools that will allow you to work comfortably in your garden.
- Get familiar with issues that might cause plants to fail—and how to resolve them.
- You might be looking at a long-term plan for improving soil quality.
Gardening is an extraordinarily rewarding undertaking, especially if you go about it properly. Choose your plants and a plot thoughtfully, and prepare well for the daily details. You’ll be digging a truly productive garden in no time!
