Now that you have decided why you want a garden, let’s talk about how to get started. A gardener never stops learning and though it’s easy to become overwhelmed in the beginning, we all have to start somewhere. Don’t worry about failing at this point; the biggest mistake you will make is NOT starting!
So, where do you start? You start by making some decisions. Where are you going to place the garden? What will your garden look like?
1. Location, Location, Location! Find a sunny spot. A successful garden needs a minimum of six hours of sunlight each day. Make it easy to keep plants watered, by locating your garden close to your water source (more on irrigation later!). If you really want to enjoy your garden, plant it close to the house. You will see it, you will want to be in it, and your kids will play in it!
2. Determine what your garden will grow in. You have lots of options! For example, a garden can be grown in pots on a deck, a raised bed behind the house, or simply a spot cultivated in the yard. Whatever it may be, let me encourage you to start small. It’s much easier to manage a small garden plot and keep the weeds under control than have a large weedy mess that makes you want to hide inside. I have seen too many beginning gardeners till up more than they can handle. A huge garden means a huge commitment. Make it manageable and you will be successful!
Another important decision is figuring out what you will grow in your garden. Come back Thursday for a post on just that!
If you are planning your inaugural garden, please send me a note at dmckenna@nutrientsforlife.org. What additional questions do you have about beginning a garden that I haven’t addressed yet? Are you questioning the possible location of the garden? Take a picture and send it to me. I will help you decide on the best location.
I am happy to be gardening with you.
I completely agree about starting small, from very recent experience. I hadn’t gardened since I was young at home – aside from a little plot when I was about 22. Two summers ago we made a small 8X4 raised bed and grew a few things. It was great, small, and easy to manage. Last years garden was a struggle due to some watering and soil issues, but we are increasing this year by adding another raised bed, slightly bigger than the first. The thing that makes me the most nervous is going on vacation. The house sitters (aka – adult children) aren’t the most reliable waterers!