Summer is in full gear and although temperatures might be high, it’s also the perfect time to pick up a new hobby – gardening! It’s a great pastime activity, it’s rewarding, can add some beauty to your home and possibly increase the property value. But if you’re new to gardening, you might not know exactly where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list that can help you build your garden from the ground up!
Define your garden
First off, what type of garden are you looking to create or would best benefit your family? There are many types of gardens. Succulent gardens, vegetable gardens, flower gardens, herb gardens – the list goes on. Many families want gardens that will grow them food that they can take straight to the table, while others want something that will add to the home’s décor and some want a mix of both.
Pick a spot
Look for an area in your yard that receives plenty of sun and you don’t mind sacrificing, as well as has healthy soil, as that is one of the foundations of all good gardens. Gear up with some boots and gloves and bring a shovel and start digging holes. Take note of anything unusual like odors or pipes as it might not be the best place to host your garden. The best spots are usually flat areas as a sloping garden is far more difficult. And of course, make sure there’s easy access to a water source – you don’t want to have to buy a longer hose.
Clear the field & improve the soil
The fun part about gardening is getting your hands dirty. Tackle those weeds and sod in your gardening area. Get deep under there – you can slice under the sod with a spade and cutting it up into pieces allows for an easier removal. Next, you’re going to want to improve the soil. An easy way to do this is to plant manure crops, like rye, cowpeas, mustard and more.
Get ready to plant your seeds
Once you’ve hit your local gardening store, it’s time to plant them. The best way to create a healthy bed for your seeds is to first loosen the soil as it helps the roots grow more easily. Then, check the plant tag to see how deep to dig the beds for your seeds – which you can do either with a tool or by hand.
Maintenance is key
With all that sweat you’ve dedicated to your garden, you’re going to want to make sure you keep it maintained. Check the soil regularly to make sure it isn’t drying up, keep an eye out on the surrounding area to make sure nothing is creeping back into the garden, look out for pests and take care of them sooner rather than later, and make sure you provide plenty of nutrients and water – especially during hot days.
If you don’t have a yard, right now may be a great time to make a move into a home that offers plenty of space for all your hobbies. Start your search today HERE and find your dream home!
