EXPERIENCED gardeners often plant crops without giving it a second thought.
Years of practice – sometimes from a young age – means they rarely refer to planting directions, or even advice on fertilisers, soil, or watering.
For them, it’s second nature. But for many others, gardening is a mystery.
A lot of people don’t garden simply because they’ve never learned how.
If you’re new to gardening, there are a few things to look out for when choosing plants.
Just like people, healthy plants tend to “look well”. A plant that’s thriving will look fresh, with vibrant green foliage – not wilted or tired.
Pick up the pot – if it feels unusually light, it might be too dry, indicating it hasn’t been properly cared for.
Some plants that look appealing at the nursery may not be suitable for your area.
It’s always wise to check your local council website for a list of invasive or noxious species.
For instance, Gazania daisies, while colourful and hardy, are under review for their environmental impact.
Bamboo – once a backyard favourite – is now limited to specific, non-invasive varieties.
When it comes to growing vegetables, punnets often come in four or six-packs, which may be more than you need.
Rather than wasting unused seedlings, consider starting from seed. It may sound fiddly, but it’s often cheaper and more flexible.
Try sowing small amounts in recycled plastic containers – this allows you to stagger plantings and better understand the growing habits of each plant.
With a little patience and experimentation, gardening becomes less intimidating – and even enjoyable.
Until next time, happy gardening!
