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We’ve all seen homes with spectacular flower gardens and wandering beds of color that brilliantly frame the property. But how do those homeowners do it? Some have years of experience. Others pay someone else to do it (they don’t know what they’re missing!). But here’s a secret: if you know a few basics rules of (green) thumb, you can have a gorgeous garden of your own.
Begin with KISS
It’s easy to become overzealous as you take on your first garden. Grand plans for sprawling and intricate gardens can quickly become overwhelming in reality. Instead, set yourself up for success: Keep it Simple (and Small). Then, as you learn more and see what’s working (and what isn’t), you can expand your vision.
Location, Location, Location!
As with prime real estate, where you locate your garden will be key to its success. The majority of garden plants need about six hours of full sun each day. Keep in mind that many plants turn toward the sun, so consider whether flowers will have their backs to you when you most want to view them. And remember that phrase, “out of sight, out of mind?” Put the garden where you will see it regularly and can’t ignore it.
What’s the Big Idea?
It helps to have a creative theme for your garden to establish harmony and a defined focal point to create a pleasing invitation to explore your garden. Consider different textures and plant heights for visual interest. While color is powerful, don’t make it overwhelming. Start with a couple thematic colors and slowly add from there. Still unsure? Look for garden designs and ideas online that you can adapt for your garden.
Rest Your Bones
When laying out your design, start with the “bones.” That’s garden talk for the trees, large rocks, ornamental objects, paths and other structural features that provide the framework of your garden. Placing rocks in patterns that emulate nature (cascading, partially buried) and using small-to-medium sized evergreens as anchors will add to the interest and dimension of your garden. A walkway and bench will invite exploration.
Choose Your Buds
Flowers are your friends… if you choose them wisely. Consider how much time you will have for your garden. Some plants demand ongoing attention, while others are hardy and need minimal attention. For your first garden, start] with hardier varieties such as hostas, peonies, coneflowers, coral bells and Siberian iris. Blend in your favorite annuals for color. Be sure to select a variety of heights and textures.
Good Soil, Less Toil
Having fertile and balanced soil with an ideal texture is perhaps the most important part of any garden. Test soil texture by making a ball of it in your hands when the soil is damp (not wet). It should hold together but break apart when tapped or prodded. If it won’t ball, it’s too sandy. If you can sculpt with it, it’s clay. Find that happy medium and you’ll have fewer challenges later on when your garden is planted.
Preparing the soil is the best investment of time and effort you can make for long-term results. Start by removing sod by digging it out. With bare ground exposed, it’s time to turn it, churn it and mix in organic matter to improve soil fertility and texture. Organic matter is dead and decaying plant and animal waste, including compost, leaves, grass clippings and mushroom manure. For optimal results and the least investment of time and sweat, use a garden tiller to work the soil and mix in organic matter. There are front tine, rear-tine and vertical-tine tillers to match your needs. Smaller cultivators are useful for small and raised or boxed gardens. You’ll have use for a tiller in both spring and fall seasons.
You’ve Made Your Bed, Now Plant In It
After the risk of frost has passed, it’s time to plant your perennial and annual flowers. Buy young plants and flats at your neighborhood live goods or garden center. Don’t shy away from plants that have not yet bloomed. To plant, simply dig a hole in the loose soil at specified spacing, slip the plant in and backfill the hole with a gentle press of your hands. Once plants are in place, dress the area with 2-3 inches of shredded wood mulch or bark chips to discourage weeds and retain moisture.
Explore the Real Joy of Gardening
Arguably, the most enjoyable aspect of gardening is working your garden over time. By regularly spending time in your new garden, you’ll monitor growth, observe seasonal changes and stay ahead of any issues. It’s also a great chance to imagine new ways to enhance and expand your creation. But be prepared, you may just become the neighbor that others are looking to for gardening advice!
