Return to Childhood -- Get Into Gardening

Do you recall childhood summer days spent running in the yard, with bare feet, feeling the earth in your toes, and the wind in your hair? Why not regain that feeling now that you are grown up? You can get reacquainted with the outdoors if you take the leap and get into gardening.

If gardening is new for you, it is best to start small. A planter bed of about 20 - 30 square feet would be great, and will help keep about 30 plants in a neat, controllable space. Starting with this size will allow you to wet your green thumb without being overwhelmed by a large project. After your first year, you may realize that you absolutely love gardening, so you can then increase the size of your plot for the next season.

Choosing a good planting site is crucial. Where you live will be the biggest determining factor, but preferably you can plant in a spot that gets at least six hours of good light each day. Roots of large trees should be avoided, as they can steal your plants' nutrients and water. And try to keep your garden three feet or more away from any buildings or fences.

Choose a place that gets shaded from the hot afternoon sun, especially if you live in a hot climactic zone. A good garden will grow with variable light, but you may have to tailor the plants you choose, depending on the light level. Pick a spot with good soil, although keep in mind that you can improve soil later. Don't plant in rocky soil, or a spot with really steep slopes or poor drainage.

After you've chosen the location, it's time for the real fun to begin: when you can dig in and really get into gardening. This is not a clean hobby, so prepare to get a little dirt under your nails. First, you're going to need to remove any rocks, debris, weeds and grass from your garden plot, and then use a spade or pitchfork to dig down about one foot deep. Mix in compost or minerals if required, and level the dirt. If your soil is too acidic, add lime; if it's too sandy, add peat moss. When you add in the proper fertilizer, your plants will thrive in either neutral or acidic soil.

Planting time is here now that your garden plot is well-prepared. You can either use seeds, or start with tiny already growing plants. The second option is more expensive, but will allow you to visualize the completed garden more easily. If you do use plants, choose ones with healthy green leaves and stems, and make sure roots are healthy. Don't purchase plants with yellowed leaves.

When planting, position smaller plants at the front of the bed, and larger ones behind. The key to a successful beginning in gardening is planting at the right time. Make sure that the risk of frost has passed before planting your tender varieties, although some annuals, like pansies and violas, can safely weather the spring frost. If you are planting seeds, read the package for important information about when and how to plant.

Your plants must receive regular care and attention to help them thrive. Watering is absolutely essential to having healthy plants. If you have a few plants, such as in balcony or patio planters, you can easily accomplish this task by hand watering. However, larger gardens require the use of a garden hose with a sprinkler or nozzle. Don't be skimpy with the water; make sure the roots receive adequate moisture.

It is best to water early in the morning when air temperatures are cool. Watering in the hot afternoon sun is environmentally and financially wasteful as much of the water will evaporate before reaching the root systems. And late afternoon or evening watering can leave moisture on your plants all night long, leading to mildew and diseases. Depending on the types of plants in your garden, you will have to vary how often you water. If the weather is very hot, you might need to water three times per week.

You can naturally control weeds using mulch or compost. Several inches of organic mulch in the soil will aid fertility, moisture control, and will result in cooler roots. Mulch can be made of leaves, manure, wood chips, grass clippings, or even pine needles.

Once you get into gardening, you'll wonder why on earth you haven't done it till now. Aside from the absolute joy you'll feel from harvesting your own delicious vegetables and beautiful flowers, you'll remember just how much you've missed the wind and the earth. You'll feel like a kid again.

Gardening Articles: http://www.internetionalmedia.com/Category/Gardening/

Author Dionne Voughar contributes to a variety of web sites, on recreation camping and family growing themes.

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