DIY Garden
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A trip to the library for research will contribute to gardening success.reading in the garden image by peejay from Fotolia.com
Read up on local plant species and choose those appropriate for your geographical region and the space you have available. - 2
Know the limitations of the space you have available.expectation image by Andrey Andreev from Fotolia.com
Survey the planting area you have available, confirming whether there is adequate sunlight, space, soil and access to water to keep your garden thriving. A realistic assessment of your resources will help avoid future gardening frustrations. - 3). Make a diagram of your dream garden, planning carefully to allow for proper spacing between the plant species you plan to grow. Keep in mind that taller species can keep the sunlight from reaching smaller species will receive. Plan on including pest-repellent herbs to keep unwanted insects at bay.
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Decent tools will make your gardening chores much easier.garden tools image by MichMac from Fotolia.com
Invest in a set of basic, sturdy tools. A trustworthy shovel, rake, hand trowel and hand rake will be well worth the initial financial outlay and last you through many seasons of gardening. - 5
Watch for opportunities to obtain free seeds.seeds image by Jane from Fotolia.com
Collect seeds by either purchasing them from a garden store or gathering them locally. Some plant specimens can be cultivated from plant clippings from a friend's garden. Last year's flowers and vegetables offer a bounty of free seeds ready for planting. Seed swapping websites and clubs can increase the number of varieties you can choose from at little or no cost. To gain a jump on the planting season, start your seeds indoors in a warm sunny window, using empty egg cartons to hold the soil. - 6
Yard waste can be composted to enrich soil the following spring.wheelbarrow and bins image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
Enrich your soil by making your own compost using kitchen and yard waste. There are a number of methods for composting at home, and many communities offer free compost to gardeners during the growing season. - 1
Turning the soil aerates it and makes it easier for roots to grow.Digging in the garden image by dquinnan from Fotolia.com
Prep the soil by removing all weeds and rocks and thoroughly turning the soil. Shovel on a generous helping of compost and mix it in well to enrich your soil. - 2). Plant your seeds and seedlings. Pay attention to the proper depth and spacing when placing seeds in their rows. You can space them a bit closer than needed at first, and weed out the less healthy looking sprouts later. Give your plants a generous dose of water, and continue to supply plants with as much water as they need throughout the season, without overdoing it.
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Keep a sharp eye out for pests.insect image by Kirsten Alexander from Fotolia.com
Maintain your garden vigilantly by remaining on the lookout for weeds or pest infestations. Remove any unwanted plants and critters quickly to nip problems in the bud. Organic insecticides provide pest relief in extreme cases of infestation, but should be used sparingly. - 4
A garden can bless you with culinary and aesthetic enjoyment at little cost.Basket of Garden Vegetables image by Karin Lau from Fotolia.com
Enjoy your harvest. Stop and smell your flowers. When the season winds down, collect your seeds and continue composting for next year's gardening adventure.