Gardening experts give us their best tips for a truly enviable garden.
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A garden can be a place where productivity meets serenity.
At least, thats how you might have intended it to go.
Photo:Martin Wahlborg/Getty Images
Perhaps the reality of growing your garden has been far more of a challengethat’s totally normal.
Dont be afraid to make mistakes, says Angela Judd, owner and founder of Growing in the Garden.
Theyre often the best teachers."
Our garden has evolved over time," says Vandana Koranne, the founder of Humans Who Grow Food.
“And that is how it should be.
Dont strive to create a paradise overnight.
Heres how you’re free to course correct and eventually build the garden you had in mind.
As you make a list of personal preferences, spend some extra time cross-referencing those picks with your calendar.
If you need more help deciding on whats best, visit your local community garden for tips.
Spend Time in Your Garden Every Day
Even the most dedicated gardener will get busy.
Spending time in your garden every day is the best way to help it thrive, Judd says.
Daily observation lets you catch problems when theyre still small and easy to manage.
The best time to pick is when crops are young and tenderthats when they taste best, Judd says.
Place your finger in the soil to determine how moist or dry it is, and water accordingly.
Lastly, check that the soil doesnt dry out prematurely, either.
Use mulch or hay to cover the soil for moisture retention, Koranne says.
It makes a huge difference.
But, that might be a mistake.
Growing flowers and herbs alongside my vegetables has been a game-changer, she says.
