A Beginners guide to Gardening

Gardening is a lot of fun, but it can be a daunting experience for beginners. Not sure where to begin? Here are some of our top tips for beginner gardeners.

1. Choose your location carefully 

It is important that you plant your flowers and shrubs in the ideal location. Read the labels of your plants to understand exactly what light requirements the plant needs as they can vary. Do not plant anything until you have a thorough understanding of the locations of all the plants.

2. Check the sun

To help choose the ideal planting locations, have a look at how the sun moves across your garden. Many plants require a certain number of hours in direct sunlight, so plant these in the sunniest areas of your garden for the best results. Do you have a shady section of the garden? Research which plants can thrive in these shadier conditions. There are plenty to choose from and help you make the most out of all the space in your garden.

3. Watering correctly 

Plants need water alongside sunlight to thrive but be aware just how much they need as it is possible to overwater. Pushing your finger an inch or so into the dirt is an easy way to see if the soil needs water. If the soil is dry, so are your plants.

Plants in containers require more water than those in beds due to the limited volume of soil to store water. Also make sure you have easy access to water. Having access to a hose will make maintaining your garden a lot easier than having to carry a heavy watering can around.

4. Get to know your soil

Soils vary from region to region. Get to know the characteristics of your soil. Plants and vegetables need good quality soil that is rich in nutrients and also has good drainage. The soil type will determine which plants will thrive in your garden. Top tip- take a peek at your neighbours' garden for inspiration. 

5. Consider Containers 

If you have a smaller garden or a patio area, consider doing some container gardening. Not only can you make some stunning floral displays, they can be easier to start off with, which makes them a great option for beginners. 

6. Check your zone

Understanding the hardiness zone of your garden can really help you choose the right plants. The hardiness zone refers to how hardy the plant is and are the worst conditions the plant can cope in. The higher the number, the warmer the climate needs to be for the plants to thrive. 

7. Allow enough space

Plants need space around them to grow, so plan your planting with care. If they are too close together, some of the plants may not grow at all and may not survive as they are competing for space and resources. On the other hand, ensure you have enough plants to fill the area as otherwise large, unsightly gaps will emerge. Place the plants or bulbs on the soil surface first so you can easily plan where they will all be planted and ensure they are evenly spaced. As you become more experienced this will become second nature.

8. Get the right tools

Stock up the basic gardening tools. To start with you don't need many. If you are doing container gardening, just start with compost, gardening gloves, a watering can and a trowel. If you are planting flower beds you may also need a shovel, spade and gardening fork to get your started.

9. Be gentle with plants

If you are buying potted plants, ease them gently out of their pots, making sure not to damage the roots. Be careful with flower bulbs too as they can be damaged if not handled with care.

10. Label

Plants often come with a plastic label that you can place in the ground nearby. This will ensure you don't forget which plant is which and means their care instructions are easily at hand.

11. Protect your plants 

Weeds and pests can be a gardener's worst enemy. Protect your plants by weeding regularly, ensuring you remove the roots entirely. Also be aware of pests and diseases that can attack when the plant is stressed. Regulated levels of water, sunlight and nutrients can help create natural immunity. 

12. Plan in advance

Before buying any plants, have an idea of what you want your garden to look like. Think about having a range of plants, think about having them at different heights and introduce different colours for a bright and beautiful end result. Also think about planning for some spring plants as well as some winter flowering plants. Advance planning will mean you can have a colourful garden all year round.

13. Have Fun 

The most important thing about gardening is that you should have fun whilst doing it. Choose plants that suit your garden but also plants that you love. If you enjoy gardening and start seeing the benefits of your hard work, you are more likely to continue loving it in the future and become more confident.

These tips are great options for you to start with. Once you have mastered the basics, you can build on the knowledge and become a skilled gardener. Gardening is a process of trial and error. Some things will work first time whilst others may not. You will learn over time what does and doesn't suit your garden.

If you need any help with bulbs and gardening advice, then please contact us. Boston Bulbs Wholesale is a privately- owned business with over 35 years' experience of importing only the finest quality horticultural products through Europe and from farms and growers all over the UK. Whether you're a landscaper, nursery, local authority, wholesaler, retailer, private business or individual gardener, give us a call on 01775 769 333 or visit https://bostonbulbswholesale.co.uk for help with flower bulbs, grass seed and more.