One of the most popular hobbies people take up is starting a garden in their backyard, but there are several things you must consider first. What you need to know before starting your own garden is maintaining the ecological health of your backyard and your own skills going into it. Neglecting either of these factors can lead to a failing garden or a deteriorating yard; make sure you go in knowing what to do when establishing your garden.
Take Your Space and Environment Into Consideration
The first critical step in the process is to determine the characteristics of your yard and environment. Take note of how much space you have to work with, whether there are a lot of trees that cast shade, and if the climate is hospitable for the plants you’re tending.
Adapt To Circumstances
Depending on these characteristics, you may need to amend your plans and goals. While you don’t need a lot of space, you might not be able to plant as much as you’d like. Or, if your local climate is generally colder, it might prohibit you from growing certain plants, like yucca or aloe vera.
Know Your Personal Gardening Limits
When starting, you must acknowledge your limits, whether those are in knowledge or skill. Taking on more than you can handle can lead to a garden that is too large for you to adequately care for, leaving many plants to die on the vine. Don’t be afraid to start small and work your way up; give your skills a chance to develop before you take on more.
Be Aware of Your Soil’s Quality
Not all soil is the same, and knowing the unique characteristics of your local soil will give you the knowledge you need to better seed the earth. You can perform tests on the soil to check if it’s substantially deficient in any nutrients, to find out pH levels, and to see what type of ground you’re dealing with. These factors also play a huge role in what can and cannot grow in your yard.
What’s Best for the Environment?
Everything you do to the soil and whatever tools you use—whether they are hand tools or chemicals—will affect the environment around you. Because of the environmentally conscious nature most gardeners have, some opt to try hydroponics due to its environmental benefits.
