Everyone has at one point in their life felt like they have a green thumb, but just the worst luck. You did everything by the book, but the results are still lacking. Fear not, my dear, as we’re about to dive into the issue of proper gardening for beginners.
Start Small
This isn’t one of those go-big-or-go-home types of situations. Remember that gardening is something that needs to be done with love and time. Don’t try to develop a full garden – focus on one or two potted plants. Get a feel for different flowers and their needs in terms of water and sunlight. Once you’ve mastered taking care of your plant buddies, gradually expand your garden, whether on your terrace or in the backyard.
Give Plants Their Space and Soil
Sometimes, it can get a little too crowded inside a flower bed. At those times, it is of utmost importance to move some of the plants to bigger flowerpots in order to give them plenty of room to grow. Picture your plants like children fighting because they have to share a room or, worse yet, a single bed.
The soil is a big factor in growing plants. Read up on your flower and what type of soil it needs most. There are many stores that sell this soil, or you can experiment with what you have.
Bathe Them in Sunlight
If you have a terrace facing south, that will be perfect. Be careful though, as some plants can handle the sun at its strongest, while others can’t. Make sure that your plants are out in the fresh air and ready to soak up some of that beautiful sunlight.
While it is not always possible to maintain the strength and level of sunlight, since we are human and unable to control the weather (for now), you might want to consider building a greenhouse in your backyard. It could utilize the sun’s rays to the fullest, even when it’s partially cloudy.
Compost
Turn your failures into second chances with compost. Plants that die, as well as any fruit and veggie waste you have around the house, will provide the soil with nutrients your new green babies need to grow.
If your flower is losing petals or leaves, you can just set those at the bottom of the plant and let the soil take care of it.
Easy Mode
If you are nervous and afraid of messing things up, we suggest taking a step back and nurturing plants that need the least care. Specifically, I’m talking about cacti. A cactus needs sunlight and very little water. They are not designed to be pretty, but durable in harsh and dry conditions. Use them as a sort of safety net in your garden. Just be careful, because the needles are a pain (quite literally) to remove.
Be Patient
Gardening is not a race – you are not doing it to beat your neighbor, but to make yourself feel good about something you’ve accomplished. There will be a huge amount of trial and error before you master taking care of your garden. Sometimes the plants will dry up, other times they will drown.
Don’t be discouraged if you fail once or fifty times, we’ve all messed up a few times while we were growing our gardenias. It is all a part of the process of learning. Before you know it, you and your garden will be growing together.
