These common habits might be the reason your plants aren’t thriving like you want them too.
Siarhei Khaletski/Getty Images
Gardening is a great way to stay active and connected to nature.
So, we asked experts to share the common gardening habits that can sabotage plants.
Photo:Siarhei Khaletski/Getty Images
Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil when it’s hot," she says.
“As a bonus, it helps control weeds and neatens up your beds.
Your mulch should be 2-4 inches deep.
And hey, no volcanoes around shrubs and trees, she says.
Mulch has the added benefit of keeping weeds at bay.
So, keep an eye on the weather and adjust mulching practices accordingly.
Watering too much or too little
Watering is half the battle.
However, most people don’t realize how much water is needed for their plant jot down and climate.
Too little watering leaves plants dehydrated and stressed.
Misjudging sun conditions
“People complain to me that they just kill everything,” Janney says.
“Full-sun plants need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight,” she says.
“Same goes for shade.
Just because it’s a shade plant doesn’t mean it needs very little sun.
Most shade plants need at least 3 hours.”
“Compacted soil prevents good air circulation and impedes water from penetrating the soil.”
Soil compaction is where soil particles are pressed together by activities that put pressure and weight on soil.
Heavy machinery, foot traffic, or tillage might cause this.
Allowing weeds to set seeds
Bunting saysweedsneed to be removed before they go to seed.
If you neglect your garden for too long, you risk ruining the plants you want to keep.
It is best to grow organically whenever possible.
Growingnative plants, crop rotation, and companion planting will naturally reduce pest issues.
