Whether you’re part of the work-from-home cohort that is rapidly becoming the norm or simply enjoy returning to a home with a vibrant garden, having a yard with a stunning array of plants and wildlife is truly something to behold. Nonetheless, turning a dull and lifeless yard into something that wouldn’t be out of place at the Northwest Flower and Garden Show is one of those things that is often easier said than done. If you have been feeling down about your garden, this post will help you get back on track and find the silver lining in almost any circumstance.
Consider What Style You Want To Achieve
Before you head out and spend a fortune on a vast panoply of gardening tools, equipment, and utensils, it’s prudent to take some time to consider what look you’re trying to achieve carefully. For instance, do you want to develop a modern masterpiece and set up your plants in fiberglass planters that match a minimalist approach, or do you think of yourself as more of a fan of the rustic look? If you can get this first step right, you will not only save money but also have a solid foundation on which to build the rest of your landscaping strategy. Once you have decided on an aesthetic that fits in with your tastes and the rest of your home, you can start planning, planting, and enjoying your garden.
Get Your Soil On Point
Getting your soil right is crucial for achieving the vibrant look that most gardeners want to accomplish when they set out on this journey. The soil is the foundation for the plant’s health, and getting this step right from the very beginning will generate a lush landscape you can be genuinely proud of (not to mention that it will last the course). The soil must contain the correct nutrients and structure to support robust growth, and fortunately, achieving this is not as difficult as you might imagine and all that is needed is:
- Compost: We won’t go into this too much because there is a dedicated section later in the post.
- pH levels: Knowing your soil’s pH levels allows you to adjust if needed by adding various chemicals that suit the plants you intend to grow.
- Rotation: Rotating where you plant different types of plants from season to season prevents the build-up of pests and gives your soil time to recover naturally.
- Mulch: Several inches of organic mulch, like wood chips, can suppress weeds, retain moisture, and slowly break down into essential nutrients.
- Leave it alone: You should aim to avoid excessive digging and tiling, which can damage the soil structure.
Consistently Water Or Enlist The Aid Of Modern Technology
Even the most inexperienced gardener understands the importance of keeping their plants watered regularly. Just as water is the life force that allows humans to function correctly, so too is it for your plants. Therefore, you should make a concerted effort to keep your planters and plant beds adequately moist. However, if you don’t think you will have the time, you can always purchase an automatic watering system that will turn on and off at intervals set by you. Furthermore, if you invest in the more sophisticated options, it’s also possible to connect them to the internet and other sensors, enabling them to water appropriately according to forecasts.
Create Your Own Compost Heap
Developing your very own compost heap is a rite of passage for new gardeners and a key aspect of cultivating a healthy garden. Homemade compost produces a precious elixir for your soil, imbuing it with vital nutrients and an improved texture suitable for almost any plant you wish to plant. As various organic material is added and the natural decomposition process does its work, a rich, earthy gold is produced to replenish the soil year after year. With compost in the soil, water and nutrients are better retained so your plants may reach their fullest potential.
Prune Regularly For Healthier Growth
It might seem counter-intuitive, but if you want your plants to grow strong and healthy, you can accomplish this with regular pruning. By judiciously removing dead or overgrown sections, light and air can better penetrate the plant, allowing for proper development. Pruning encourages dense, structured growth and discourages legginess or overcrowding that saps strength. In addition to helping the plants grow stronger by bringing in more light, you can also preempt any diseases or blights that could stunt their growth or even spread to the rest of your grounds.
Gardening should be one of life’s little pleasures, and by following the tips in this post, you can be well on your way to enjoying the garden of your dreams. As long as you appreciate what’s involved, you won’t be disappointed.
