Start Gardening

When you start gardening the key factor is to remove all weeds and unwanted plants. This can be achieved by digging the ground and removing all of the weeds and their roots. Many people find it is easier to cut down high weeds with a strimmer or scythe before digging begins.

Small gardens can be dug by hand using a garden fork, there are different weights and sizes of forks and other garden tools available so it may be a good idea to chose one which can be picked up easily and only lifts small amounts of soil otherwise the new gardener may find they sprain their back. For larger gardens and allotments a tiller may be very useful to use.

Once weeds have been removed leave the soil for a week or two and then re-dig as further weeds will have appeared. Good quality organic compost can be dug in to enrich the soil ready for planting. While weeding it may also be advisable to remove any large rocks or stones, particularly if vegetables are to be grown.

If the thought of forever weeding is a little daunting then the prepared soil can be covered with a mulch or black polythene to prevent the weeds from growing. Vegetables and flowers can be planted through the mulch and many benefit from mulches such as courgettes (zucchini), pumpkins, marrows and potatoes.

When you start gardening it may be useful to sketch out a design of how the finished garden will look, this will enable specific areas to be dedicated to different types of plants such as flowers, bushes, trees and vegetables. If a pond is to be included this needs to be sited appropriately to ensure sunlight and access is adequate.

Flower gardens can be divided into specific beds and boarders. Trellis, arbours and sheds will also need to be found a suitable position in the garden.

When you start gardening it can be very challenging or daunting depending on how the person views gardening! However, once a garden had become established it can be altered and enhanced over the years. Gardening is becoming an increasingly popular form of exercise and many people are starting a garden to grow their own organic fruit and vegetables, which can also be a very cost effective way to eat healthily.

Learn the secrets to growing a successful organic vegetable garden.

Posted on August 9th, 2008 by Jean-Helene
Filed under: Start Gardening