Hobby Gardening

Gardening can be both fun and productive. There is something thrilling about being able to grow one's own herbs and vegetables for cooking or flowers to beautify the home. Gardening can be done just about anywhere, under any conditions. Each kind of gardening will have its own set of gardening techniques for success at that type of gardening. The following are tips that can be useful for new gardeners and those thinking about starting a garden.

1. Decide what type of garden you want and where it will be. Do you want to grow fresh vegetables for yourself and your family? Do you want plants to brighten up your home? Do you want to watch nature in your backyard? Many plants can be grown that will attract butterflies, birds and other wildlife to your yard.

2. Plan your garden before you start. Planning is necessary for a healthy, productive garden. Where will it be? How much time can you commit to it? Do you have the time for a large garden, or should you start out small? How accessible will it be? How large a garden do you want or need? You might start a garden without planning, but successful, long-term gardens need to be planned.

3. If you have limited space, you might want a container garden. With planning, a lot can be accomplished in small areas. You will have to decide the size of containers you will use and buy prepared potting soil or prepare soil before you plant.

4. Learn which plants might be toxic to animals. Just because humans can eat certain plants doesn't mean all animals can eat them. Learn which plants attract butterflies, birds or other wildlife to your yard or garden.

5. If you are planning a large garden outside, consider organic gardening. This is gardening without the use of chemicals and pesticides. Organic gardening is safer for kids, pets, animals and the environment.

6. Enjoy gardening. Unless this is your occupation, you are gardening because you wanted a useful hobby, to relax or to produce better products than you could buy in a store. Don't make it a lot of work. Learn how to choose plants that will be easy to grow. If you aren't going to enjoy gardening, don't do it.

There is something about putting one's hands into good soil that appeals to many people. When that good soil can produce vegetables or flowers, many people want to grow their own. Maybe your first gardening effort won't be that successful, but you will learn as you go. Review gardening tips for the next garden, and it should be more successful. Soon, people may ask you where you got your green thumb!