Maybe you’re a gardening pro who is naturally gifted with a green thumb, but for the newbies, starting an at-home garden can be daunting. You need the right tools and supplies, knowledge on the best soil and seeds for the time of year and region, and an understanding of the best caretaking processes.<\/p>\n
Whether you’re interested in growing herbs and vegetables, potting succulents, or planting colorful flowers, with a little bit of work, it’s possible to have your own dreamy green utopia. Just follow these tips to start your personal home garden.<\/p>\n
Decide what you want to grow
\n<\/b>For example, if you want to grow a vegetable and herb garden, you should first determine what you want to eat. Another important factor is to determine what grows best in your area. Do a little research about your gardening zone to learn important factors like the first and last frost date, estimated rain, and which crops grow well in your area.<\/p>\n
Determine the best area to plant your garden Buy essential gardening tools Test your soil Prepare your soil
\n<\/b>You will want an area that is close to a water source such as a sprinkler or hose. Otherwise, you\u2019ll have to carry water buckets long distances. Also, most plants and vegetables on average need six hours of consistent sunlight<\/span><\/a>. Pick an area that is not covered by trees. If you live in a particularly dry or sunny area, then an area with partial shade is just fine.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/b>You’re not an official gardener until you have the right tools. You need a spading fork or shovel to loosen and dig the soil and a rake to remove rocks, weeds, dirt, and grass. There\u2019s both a leaf and a dirt rake to help make the process easier. You\u2019ll also need a gardening hoe, scuffle hoe, shears, gloves, and hand tools. Don\u2019t worry because there are plenty of gardening tool kits for beginners that have everything you need.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>The next important step is to get to know your soil. Just like hair cannot grow without healthy roots, plants can\u2019t grow without the proper soil. A simple soil test<\/span><\/a> will help you determine the pH of your soil, which shows whether your soil is acidic, alkaline, or neutral. The proper pH level will ensure that the soil is packed with nutrients and that there is optimal plant growth.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/b>Once you know the pH level of your soil, it\u2019s time to put your gardening tools to good use. Start by shoveling the soil to loosen it up and break up any big chunks of dirt. Use your rakes to remove leaves and weeds. Fall and spring are optimal times to prepare the soil for a new garden. One gardening hack that will allow you to skip the soil testing and preparation phase is to plant your garden in a raised bed that comes in easy kits<\/span><\/a> that are great for beginners!<\/span><\/p>\n