Click below to listen to my 2 min. Garden Bite radio show/podcast: Top mistakes gardeners make
As we nestle in for a long winter …
… I want to talk about the top mistakes new gardeners, and some of we more impatient gardeners make. Skipping soil prep is number one.
Soil is the foundation by which all things grow, so when you don’t take the time for a little prep, you’re giving your plants a shorter life span at the very least.
You can’t completely change the structure of your soil unless you create a raised bed, however, you can amend it. Adding organic matter like shredded leaves, grass clippings or compost will add nutrients as well as fluff your soil.
Fluffy soil allows roots to reach down more easily for those nutrients. Your plants will thrive. You can till organic matter into your soil in the spring after the soil has dried out. But don’t overtill.
You don’t need or want to do this every year as it has a tendency to break down the soil too much. In fact, many experts are now advocating no till! Keep adding your shredded leaves and compost every year, just pile it right on top. This raised bed still defies being amended. Reason: the Hackberry roots refuse to stop sending out roots! Since I LOVE my tree, I will be trying something different next year. Stay tuned!!
Another mistake is to over water. You’ll drown your plants suffocating them with too much love. A general rule of thumb is one inch of water a week. That includes rain.
Under watering is a problem too but I see more over watering than under. Don’t let wilting be your guide. Instead get a cheap rain gauge to place in your garden. Remember that there are plants that need more water than others. In particular the hydrangea needs water before coneflowers. Always read the label for plant specifics.
It’s important to choose the right placement of your garden. If you love sun plants but only have shady areas, then you need to work with what you have OR trim the trees in an area to allow for more sun.
