Everyone has to start off as a beginner, right? That’s as true in gardening as it is in athletics, baking, sewing, or whatever you can think of. Being a beginner can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to get discouraged. We’ve all been there. Even gardening “pros” make mistakes and learn lessons every season.
Here are a couple of ways to boost your odds of success in your kitchen garden this summer.
1. Start Small
Herbs make great starter plants if you’re a little unsure of your ability to keep something alive. Basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme grow really well in Austin’s hot summers and, with a little bit of attention, can even survive until next year! You don’t have to be growing attention-grabbing tomatoes or show-stopping watermelons to feel like you’re a successful gardener. Plant some herbs and low-maintenance native flowers–whatever makes you happy!
2. Follow Our Growing Guides
It’s great to have a plan in the garden, and our monthly growing guides will tell you exactly what you can plant and when here in Austin, Texas. That way, you don’t have to waste your time–or your money–planting something that’s not going to produce for you. Check back here on the blog or on Instagram/Facebook each month for the new monthly guide.
Or get our complete guide for Central Texas here:
Central Texas Monthly Planting Guide
Take all the guesswork out of your seasonal planting.
$10
3. Add Some Compost
It’s a good idea to invest in a soil mixture ideal for growing fruits and vegetables and then keep it healthy. Healthy soil allows healthy plants to grow and reduces pest pressure and disease. Whenever you plant something new, add a layer of compost and some organic fertilizer to the top of your raised beds.
4. Don’t Stress about Garden Pests
We love to grow our gardens organically, and part of that means having the understanding that pests come and go. Our tricks for dealing with pests include pruning damaged leaves, clearing the soil of old debris where pests like to hide, adding compost, and using covers when needed. If we really need to pull out the big guns, then our go-to’s are soapy water and neem oil. Learn more about our 6 Tips for Organic Pest Control.
And finally…
5. Lettuce Do the Work for You
At Lettuce Grow Something, we love helping gardeners of all levels find success in their kitchen gardens. From planning to designing, maintaining to harvesting, we’ll be by your side with insider advice and some useful tips and tricks for Central Texas’s weather. If you’re ready to get started, CLICK HERE TO GROW WITH US.
Happy gardening!
