Jul 22 2008
The Beginner Gardener: Getting Ready
Every gardener, whether he is an avid veteran or an occasional hobbyist, started somewhere. Maybe it was alongside his parent’s or when she moved into her first home. Whenever she started, every new and even experienced gardener must ask him or herself several questions before starting a garden. In this article, I am going to look at a few questions that you need to ask yourself before you even begin your new garden.
Am I too busy?
This is the most important question that you should ask yourself before anything else? You shouldn’t worry about the soil, the cost or even the tools. You shouldn’t think about the space or what you want to see in it, that all comes later, but truthfully answer the question about your time. Do you have the time to tend your garden and if so, how much time do you have?
It may be surprising but the amount of time that you actually have will greatly determine the type and style of your garden. If you have limited time, you may simply opt for a container garden where maintenance is kept to a minimum. If you have more time, you may decide on a full garden with flowers, vegetables and a continuous emergence of new ideas and plants.
Basically, the more time you have, the more elaborate your garden will be, especially if you enjoy the activity.
What style do you want?
Now that you understand how much time you can give to your newest hobby, you really need to look at the type of style that you would like. Remember that it isn’t limited to container or rock or even a water garden but it can also include a wide variety of ideas. You can go with a Tuscan garden, a green retreat or even a haphazard garden that gives a whimsical feel to the space.
What type of space do you have?
Finally, although there will be other questions to answer after these, you will need to figure out the space that you have and all the limitations and benefits that it has. If you are not sure of what those benefits are, you can always ask an expert.
From there, you can begin to truly understand the garden you are creating, what will work and what you will need to create the space of your dreams.
Hope this helps in getting you ready for your garden and look for more beginner tips in the weeks to come.
Sirena Van Schaik
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