The Simple Gardening Guide: What Works For Me

Introduction: Welcome to my no-frills guide to gardening! After over 40 years of planting, watering, and using a few basic tools, I’ve learned what really works. This simple guide will walk you through my approach to gardening—just the essentials, nothing fancy.

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot for Your Garden

"A garden needs sun—at least 6 hours a day. Over the years, I’ve found that picking a spot near a fence or wall works well because it helps protect plants from strong winds. If you’re unsure about your soil, try this simple test: grab a handful of soil, squeeze it, and see if it holds together. If it crumbles, it’s too sandy, but if it stays clumped, it’s likely too clayey. Both issues can be fixed by adding compost or organic matter, which I’ve done many times."

Step 2: Pick Your Plants

"You can buy plants from your local nursery or start them from seeds. I started with seedlings because they’re quicker, but growing from seeds can be very rewarding and cost-effective."

Step 3: How to Plant

"Dig a hole that’s about twice the size of the root ball. When I plant, I like to make sure the hole is wide enough so the roots can spread out comfortably. Place your plant or seedling into the hole, then water it thoroughly so the roots get a good start. I usually water until the soil looks a bit muddy—this helps prevent air pockets that can damage the roots. After that, cover it with soil and gently pack it down. Don’t worry about fancy techniques—just make sure the plants are well-spaced and in the right spot. I’ve found that giving plants room to breathe makes all the difference."

Step 4: Watering

"Water your plants every day, especially during dry spells. I like to water deeply so the roots get a good soak, but I always make sure not to drown them. Let the soil dry out a bit between watering—over-watering can be just as bad as under-watering. I usually water early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, which can cause the water to evaporate too quickly. It's a simple routine, but it really helps keep things healthy."

Step 5: Miracle-Gro for Healthy Plants

"I’ve been using Miracle-Gro for years, and it really makes a difference in keeping my plants strong. I mix it with water and apply it every couple of weeks around the base of the plant. The instructions are easy to follow, and the plants seem to thrive with a little extra boost. Over time, I’ve seen my vegetables grow bigger and stronger, so I swear by it."

Step 6: Simple Maintenance

"I don’t overthink it! Gardening is all about consistency. I just keep an eye out for pests or dead leaves and trim them when needed. If I see any yellowing leaves, it’s usually a sign that I’ve been a bit too heavy-handed with the watering, or maybe not enough—so I’ll adjust accordingly. It’s a simple routine, but checking on the plants regularly makes a big difference."

Step 7: Harvesting Your Plants

"Once your plants start growing, it’s time to harvest! I love watching tomatoes turn red—they’re always the most satisfying to pick. Just be sure to wait until they’re fully ripe, so they’re packed with flavor. For herbs like basil (if you happen to grow it!), I’d recommend picking the leaves regularly to encourage more growth. But with any plant, be gentle when harvesting. You don’t want to damage the plant—just snip off what you need and leave the rest to keep growing."

Conclusion: That’s it—simple, easy, and effective gardening! With a little care and consistency, your garden can thrive just like mine. Happy gardening!

Bonus Tips:

For Best Results: Stick to a routine! Regular watering, feeding, and weeding are the secret to a healthy garden.

When to Harvest: It is essential to monitor your plants regularly to determine the optimal time for harvesting. This involves observing the physical characteristics of the fruits, vegetables, or herbs you are cultivating. Look for signs of ripeness, such as changes in color, size, and firmness, which can indicate that the produce is ready for picking. For instance, tomatoes should be a deep red color and slightly soft to the touch, while cucumbers should be firm and green without any yellowing. Additionally, consider the specific growing conditions and the variety of the plant, as different species have varying indicators of ripeness. It is advisable to harvest in the morning when the temperatures are cooler, as this can help preserve the quality and flavor of the produce. Regular checks not only ensure that you pick at the right time but also help you avoid overripening, which can lead to spoilage and loss of flavor. By being attentive and knowledgeable about your plants, you can maximize your harvest and enjoy the fruits of your labor at their peak quality.

As always: HAPPY GARDENING!!