Tips for A Successful Garden!

Keeping your yard and garden healthy doesn't have to be hard. Here are some tips that can help you keep your garden green while also making it an easier and more enjoyable effort.

1. Good soil is a must! Check the ph level of your intended garden area. You can pick up testing kits at home and garden stores or take a sample to your local extension office for testing. Mix in the appropriate amendments to get it where it needs to be.

2. Fertilize – Fertilizers, fish emulsions, or other soil amendments should be added when installing new plants. Every living thing needs the right food to keep it in top shape, but use sparingly and follow label instuctions...too much can harm plants and the environment.

3. Weed regularly – Don't give the weeds a chance to overtake your garden. Weed often to keep ahead of it. Weeds can choke out your tender, new plants and produce scraggly under grown specimens. Apply a 2-3" layer of mulch to help prevent weed seeds from germinating.

4, Compost - Nothing beats composted soil! It’s a simple way to add nutrient-rich humus to your lawn or garden that fuels plant growth and restores vitality to depleted soil. It's also free, easy to make, and good for the environment.

5. Know Your Zone– This is super important if you want a successful garden. While you may desperately want to plant items like tomatoes in March they may just not fare as well where you are until later in the season. Find out your zone first and be sure what you are planning to grow does well in your area and when it is recommended to plant each vegetable in your zone. It is frustrating to pour time and energy into something if it just isn't cut out for your climate.

6. Attract Bees and Butterflies– To maximize pollination for flowers and vegetables you will want to attract these helpful creatures to your yard. Plant pollinator friendly perennials and include a water feature for them as well as a food source.