10 Tips for Great Gardens

Checklists can be so helpful, allowing a gardener to keep track without having to recall seemingly endless details. Here is our list of basics to review every now and then to help your garden be all it can be. They should ensure that you stay in great shape, too.

Select plants that will grow in your climate. Consider your typical seasonal high and low temperatures and humidity levels. Some plants, like basil, do not tolerate cold weather well. On the flipside, plants like spinach will only stick around in cooler temperatures. This link will help you find your grow zone.
Buy plants from a reputable source. Garden centers and nurseries with knowledgeable staff can help you make good decisions. Healthy, well cared for plants transplant more readily and are more likely to thrive.
Choose garden locations thoughtfully. Site sun-loving plants in the sun and shade-loving plants in the shade. Stretching the limits usually results in weak plants that are susceptible to disease. (This is one of those things that most gardeners must learn firsthand. Go ahead, test for yourself. If you like a little direction, this article gives a great overview.
Water plants based on need. this varies with type, size and location. And know that too much water can be as problematic as too little.
Provide your plants with complete nutrition. Most fertilizers and plant foods fail to do that. Spray-N-Grow Micronutrients , Bill’s Perfect Fertilizer, and Coco-Wet together in a Perfect Blend, provide all the major and minor elements required for plant health.
Keep an eye out for destructive bugs. They can invade practically overnight. There are now a wide variety of organic and environmentally friendly bug killers. Select the one that is easiest for you to apply and targets the little monsters that are causing problems. Here are several options that we love.
Watch for plant disease. Spray plants with Revitalize at the first sign of wilting, black spots, etc. as diseases spread quickly in warm weather. Get a jump on disease prevention with Copper Fungicide.
Get rid of weeds that compete with your plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Weed-free gardens are also more attractive.
Use a humane animal repellent if deer, rabbits, squirrels, and other animals choose to feast on your plants to encourage them to feast elsewhere. We offer options for all size of animals here.
Take care of yourself. Gardening is a physical activity. Wear a hat and gloves. Use sunscreen. Watch for stinging insects. Stay hydrated. Most of all, choose natural and organic products to ensure that your yard is a safe place for your family, your pets and all those well cared for plants.