Tips for a successful garden

Gardening methods are as varied as the gardeners who use them, and it seems like every gardener has his or her own preferred method of achieving a beautiful garden. Many beginning gardeners find that the best way to learn how to garden is directly from an accomplished garden. One of the best ways to find those master gardeners is to join your local garden club. These clubs can be invaluable for the beginning gardener, as the members are able to swap tips and tricks picked up through years of successful gardening. The importance of proper watering One of the keys to a successful garden is to water the plants properly. A weekly deep watering is preferable to a daily spray with the hose, as most plants prefer a thorough but deep watering to a frequent more shallow source of water. One great watering method many gardeners use is a soaker hose. A soaker hose is a great way to make sure the roots of the plant get sufficient water. Grow your own compost Another thing many experienced gardeners have picked up is the importance of creating their own compost. Using a compost bin is a great way to recycle household waste and turn it into rich organic soil that will be useful for every plant. Items that can be successfully composted include leaves, kitchen scraps and other organic materials. A home compost bin is a great way to reduce the overflow of landfills while helping your garden grow its best. Composting can also be a great way to balance the pH level of soil that is too acidic or too alkaline. High quality humus, which is the last step in the compost process, is a great, completely natural way to rebalance the pH of soil that has been damaged due to past neglect or chemical use. In addition, a good quality humus contains important nutrients such as iron, phosphorus and manganese, which are often lacking in commercially available fertilizers. Cultivation methods After the flowers have been planted, it is best to avoid further deep cultivation. Digging too deeply or too often in the soil can damage the roots of the plants, disturb valuable microorganisms, dry the soil and bring weeds to the surface. It is best to cultivate deeply when preparing the flower bed, then to leave things in place after the flowers have been planted. Using color in the garden landscape The beauty of flowers lies greatly in their bright, vibrant colors, and flowers can be used to enhance any landscape. When choosing flowers for the garden and landscape, it is best to choose colors that highlight and enhance those in the landscape. For instance, combining bright, vibrant colors like reds and oranges with more soothing pastels can provide a striking contrast for any area of the garden. In addition, it has become increasingly popular to combine the home garden with other landscape elements like ponds and waterfalls. These water elements provide a beautiful retreat from the stresses of everyday life. Landscaping with flowers can even improve the value of your home. Studies have shown that a well landscaped exterior can enhance the resale value of the home, as well as provide a beautiful treat for the senses.