🌿 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started a Garden
Helpful advice whether you’re starting your very first garden or digging into a fresh one!
Starting a garden is exciting—filled with hopes of fresh tomatoes, colorful blooms, and time spent with your hands in the dirt. But like many new gardeners, I learned a few things the hard way. Whether you’re planting your first seed or starting a new garden space, here are five things I wish I knew at the beginning.
🌱 1. Start Small and Learn as You Grow
When the gardening bug first bites, it’s easy to dream big. I pictured rows of vegetables, lush herbs, and flower beds bursting with color. But the truth is, a smaller, more manageable garden is the best place to start. Focus on just a few plants that are well-suited to your area. It gives you the chance to learn how they grow, what they need, and how to care for them—without feeling overwhelmed. You can always expand later!
☀️ 2. Sunlight Is Everything
Before you plant anything, watch the sun. Sunlight is one of the most important (and often overlooked) elements in gardening. Most vegetables and many flowering plants need at least six hours of full sun daily. Take time to observe how the sun moves across your space during the day. It will help you place your plants where they’ll truly thrive and save you the frustration of wondering why something isn’t growing.
🌿 3. Soil Health Matters More Than You Think
Your soil is the foundation of your garden. I didn’t realize at first how much difference good soil makes. If your soil is too compact, poor in nutrients, or drains poorly, your plants will struggle. Adding compost and organic matter can make a world of difference. You can even get a simple soil test kit to check pH and nutrient levels. Healthy soil = healthy plants.
💧 4. Watering Isn’t Just “More is Better”
I used to think watering meant just keeping the soil wet—but I quickly learned that more isn’t always better. Overwatering can drown roots or invite disease, while underwatering stresses the plant. Most plants prefer deep watering less frequently, which encourages stronger root systems. And adding mulch helps lock in moisture and keep your soil cool during hot weather.
🐝 5. Pollinators and Beneficial Bugs Are Your Friends
Not all bugs are bad! In fact, your garden needs pollinators like bees and butterflies to thrive—and beneficial bugs like ladybugs and lacewings help control pests naturally. Avoid harsh chemical sprays and try planting pollinator-friendly flowers like zinnias, lavender, marigolds, or native wildflowers to attract them. A healthy, balanced garden is buzzing with life!
Gardening is one of the most rewarding things you can do, and every season teaches you something new. Start where you are, use what you have, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. With a little patience and a lot of curiosity, your garden will grow—and so will you.
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