I’ve been vegetable gardening for a few years now, and my neighbors could probably tell you a thing or two about my insanely magical herloom tomatoes. But, like all of us, I started off as a beginner! Vegetable gardening for beginners can be tough! Who knew that squash multiples the way it does? And that the soil type for carrots is SO important? Instead of playing the guessing game, here are a few of my tried and true vegetable gardening tips for beginners.
#1 Location Is Everything
It’s important that you remember that your vegetable garden receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. The more sunlight you plants receive, the better your harvest will end up!
#2 How’s Your Soil?
When starting a vegetable garden, make sure that your garden soil can adequately support your plant’s and their roots. Make sure soil is well-draining and full of moisture. When stepped on, the soil shouldn’t compress too terribly!
#3 Space Them Properly
Many gardeners forget that providing plants with an adequate amount of space to grow is important! Make sure you actually read the instructions on the backs of your seed packets, and follow them to a tee. You can even plan out your garden beforehand so you make sure you have enough room for everything!
#4 Water Properly
I know, I know. This one is a given. But many of your garden plants have different watering needs. You could be at risk for over (or under) watering everything when you water at once. Again, follow the instructions on the backs of the seed packets, and pay close attention to the weather in your area.
#5 Plant At The Right Time!
Planting at the correct time is crucial for a good harvest! Most vegetables have different planting dates, so pay close attention to what the seed packets are recommending. You can also use this almanac for the best planting dates in your area!
#6 Use THIS Tool
Remember how crucial it is to adequately space out your vegetables? Instead of digging out a million different holes, use this seeding tool from Amazon.
#7 Mustard Greens Are Great
Keep the beetles away by planting mustard greens methodically throughout your garden. Plant them with your kale, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cabbage to keep those pesky beetles off the leaves of your plants!
#8 Stake Tomatoes
Your tomato plants will get my seal of approval with a tomato stake! Use bamboo tripods (or these stakes) to support the leaves of your tomato bushes for a healthier more abundant crop.
#9 Don’t Forget About Your Vines!
Just like with the tomatoes, you should stake your squash vines! Staking up your vines will save space in your garden and help with pest and disease control.
#10 Always Test Your Seeds
This probably isn’t applicable this year, but if you save this years seeds for next years crop, you’ll need this hack! You’ll need to test your saved seeds prior to planting to ensure that they are good to plant. Wrap 10% of the seeds in your packet up in a warm, damp paper towel. Place the paper towel in a plastic bag. Mark with the date, and watch them germinate in a week or two. If at least 70% percent of your seeds germinate, your saved seeds are perfect to use!
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