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 growing success in your kitchen garden.
Beginner Gardener Tip #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 most climates, with a little bit of attention, can even survive until next year if you live in temperate zone like I do in Central Texas! 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! Just don’t feel like you have to grow everything on your wish list the first year you start a garden. Slow and steady wins the race!
Beginner Gardner Growing Tip #2 – Follow Local Growing Guides
It’s great to have a plan in the garden, and monthly growing guides will tell you exactly what you can plant and when in your local city. That way, you don’t have to waste your time–or your money–planting something that’s not going to produce for you.
Many beginner gardeners have failed attempts of growing their own food due to planting their favorite vegetables or fruits at the wrong time of the year. Planting guides will help keep you on track and be more successful.
If you live in Central Texas, we have a complete monthly guide just for you!
Central Texas Monthly Planting Guide
Take all the guesswork out of your seasonal planting.
$10
Beginner Gardener Tip #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. Read A Beginner’s Guide to Compost HERE.
Beginner Gardener Tip #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 Arber’s Outdoor Kit. Learn more about our 6 Tips for Organic Pest Control.
And finally…
Beginner Gardener Tip #5 – Lettuce Help 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 coaching you to be successful in your garden.
Happy gardening!
