Gardening is a popular activity and one of the oldest hobbies known to man. What garden enthusiast hasn't spent the last cold days of winter pouring over the latest seed and flower catalogs? How does a beginning gardener get started? What tools work best for small garden plots? How does a new gardener know what to plant and where to plant to get the best results?
Selecting the Right Place for a Garden Plot
Vegetable plants generally need full sun to produce. Flowers can range from total shade to full sun, depending on the variety. Most plants purchased from general merchandise stores and home stores come with tags that have planting instructions. Garden store clerks can usually answer basic planting questions.
Choose a level garden spot that drains well after a heavy rain. Clear away weeds, grass, rocks, and any debris. The soil may need rebuilding if the spot has never been planted (or if it's an old garden). Check the texture and color of the soil to see if it's sandy, hard from clay, or if it's moderate. Consult with a local nursery owner, garden supply store, garden club official, or some other authority to find out what soil additives may be used to improve the texture.
Why Test the Garden Soil pH?
It's a good idea to test the soil for the pH level (alkaline or acidic) to see if the dirt needs a better balance of nutrients. Nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium are the key elements in soil that establish and maintain good plant health. Soil pH affects the activity of microorganisms in the soil and provides a foundation for healthy plants.
Soil testing kits can be purchased from most any garden center; but if there is any doubt about how to test accurately, then check with the experts. Send a soil sample to the county Cooperative Extension office (get kits from the office) or similar testing lab for full details and recommendations. Some plants are tough and will grow practically anywhere, but most species are finicky and need the right growing conditions for best results.
Choosing Flowers for a Garden Plot
It's a good idea to check out a local flower nursery to see what can be grown in the area. When choosing plants, bulbs or shrubs, think before buying. Would the plants be visually appealing to the neighborhood while reflecting the homeowner's style and unique taste? Is there enough room for plants that may grow large? Ask the nurseryman how to keep the plants strong and healthy:
- Does the plant need full sun, partial shade or full shade? (Make sure it's not an indoor plant.)
- What kind of maintenance does the plant require, including feeding, trimming (shrubs), watering, stakes or a trellis for climbing (vines) and so forth?
- Is the plant susceptible to certain fungi, diseases, or insects?
- What eco-friendly green repellents work best to ward off insects as well as pets, wild animals (deer, for example) and rodents?
- What kind of mulch works best to reduce weeds?
Choosing Vegetables for a Garden
It's fun to watch vegetables grow. It's wise to grow vegetables that will be eaten right at home, however, it doesn't hurt to try a few new varieties if space permits.
Here are a few vegetable growing tips for beginners:
- Prepare the ground as soon as it thaws. See the section on soil testing above.
- Plant seeds and seedlings when there is no more danger of frost.
- Grow vegetables suitable for the season and for the region. Check the zone or regional information on the packet or ask a nurseryman or garden center expert.
- Choose bush vegetables (green beans) and not vine-types for small gardens.
- Prepare to stake and tie tomatoes that grow top-heavy with fruit.
- Unless one plans to share, it's wise to have a plan for storing what can't be eaten right away. Blanching vegetables for the freezer is a great way to enjoy the crop all year 'round.
Suggested Garden Tools for Small Gardens
New soil can be turned by using either a shovel or a garden claw (see photo below). Garden tillers are great for cutting out the hard labor in big garden plots, but larger machines don't fit well in small spaces. Basic garden tools for beginners include:
- Hand trowel for planting seedlings and bulbs
- Hand cultivator for breaking up small patches of packed soil
- Weeder to remove pesky weeds
- Garden hose with nozzle for watering (Buy a good quality hose that doesn't kink.)
- Shovel for large digging jobs or turning new ground
- Hoe for making rows (optional)
- Yard rake (not a leaf rake) for cleaning out small debris and leveling the plot
- Watering can for feeding plants or a hose attachment such as the Miracle Grow liquid feeder.
- Knee pads, garden seat (optional items for comfort)
- Suntan lotion and a wide-brim hat
- Garden gloves for hand protection
Carefully cultivated flower beds and a productive vegetable garden are sure to be the envy of everyone on the block. Gardening is therapeutic – a great way to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and clear the mind. Incidentally, therapists recommend gardening as rehabilitation for stroke patients, persons with neurological disorders, and persons with Alzheimer's disease.
Gardening is good exercise, makes a great family project, and is rewarding, too. Getting started is easy, just jump into some old clothes, grab the right tools and head outdoors to find the perfect planting spot. Gardening is contagious – don't be surprised if the neighbors catch on and start planting flower beds, too.
Mary King - Mary King is a Suite101 Topic Editor for the Caregiver Support and Home Management sections. She has authored 5 teen-based novels.
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