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When you were a kid, there was nothing better than running around outside, with the wind in your hair and the earth under your bare feet. Now that you've grown, you might be surprised to find that the feeling is exactly the same. If you haven't tried gardening, it's time to roll up your sleeves, and pant legs, and get reacquainted with the great outdoors.
If you are new to gardening you are better off starting on a small scale. Try a planter bed with 20 or 30 square feet of space; you can grow about 30 plants in that nice, neat space. This size planter area will allow you to explore your green thumb without the danger of feeling overwhelmed by the size of the project. After the first season, you might love it so much you will want to expand for next year.
It is crucial to choose a good site for planting. Where your yard is located will drive most of the decision, but hopefully you can plant somewhere that gets more than six hours of good sunlight a day. Avoid large trees with big roots, as they can use up the garden's nutrients and water. Also, try to keep your plot at least 3 feet away from fences or buildings.
In hot climates, try to choose an area that will provide your garden with shade from some of the intense afternoon sun. Healthy gardens can certainly grow with more or less direct sunlight, but you may have to be flexible with the variety of plants that you choose. Finally, a site with good soil is best, although the quality and condition of the soil can always be improved. It's advisable to avoid areas with rocky soil, steep slopes or poor drainage.
Now that the location is picked, it is time to start digging in the dirt! This is not a clean hobby, so get some gardening gloves, and be prepared for dirt under your nails. Clear out any weeds, debris, grass, or rocks in the garden plot. Use a shovel or pitchfork to dig down about one foot, turning the soil, and mixing in compost or minerals depending on need. If the soil is acidic, add some lime, but if it is sandy, try adding peat moss. You likely don't need fertilizer, but if you do, choose organic, low-toxicity fertilizer.
The beds are ready and it's time to plant your garden. Deciding whether to start from seeds or plants is really a personal choice, although starting with plants can help you to determine the final growing pattern more clearly. Be sure to choose plants with healthy roots and green leaves and stems. Avoid "leggy" plants that have long stalks, or plants with yellowed leaves.
Be careful where you plant each plant or seed. Consider placing larger plants at the back of the plot, with smaller ones in the front. And check the weather forecast before you plant. If the last risk of frost is gone, then it is safe even for the more tender plants. If using seeds, check the seed package, which will have instructions on planting and growing.
Your plants must receive regular care and attention to help them thrive. Watering is absolutely essential to having healthy plants. If you have a few plants, such as in balcony or patio planters, you can easily accomplish this task by hand watering. However, larger gardens require the use of a garden hose with a sprinkler or nozzle. Don't be skimpy with the water; make sure the roots receive adequate moisture.
Watering is most effective early in the morning when the temperature is still cool. Watering during the hot afternoon sun is a waste of money, as the moisture evaporates before it reaches the root systems. Watering in the late afternoon or evening can cause moisture to stay on your plants all night, creating mildew and disease. Knowing how often to water depends entirely on the types of plants you've chosen. Most require about an inch a week. During hot spells, your plants should be watered three times a week.
Weeds can be controlled naturally by using compost or mulch. A few inches of organic mulch added to the soil will help with moisture retainment, plant fertility, and will keep roots cooler. Here are some things you can use as mulch: leaves, pine needles, manure, grass clippings, and wood chips.
Now that you are going to get into gardening, no doubt you will wonder what took you so long! You will discover the joy of harvesting your own vegetables and flowers, with the great taste and beauty they bring to your life. And you'll feel like a kid again, with the wind in your face and the soil in your hands.
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