
Gardening can be an enjoyable hobby, or even a source of additional income for you. Gardening is not rocket science, but it does require some knowledge so that you don't end up losing money on poorly maintained plants and crops. This list of tips should help you become a more successful gardener.
Pick your fruits and vegetables first thing in the morning. A morning harvest will ensure that your produce is holding the maximum amount of moisture. Also, if you pick in the morning, this will give you a chance to eat those items that day, when they are their peak of freshness.
Have your soil analyzed by a laboratory for a small fee so that you know which nutrients you need to add. Many college agricultural departments or cooperative extensions will provide this service for just a few dollars. Once you have the report, head to a farm supply company and buy what you need.
Plan your gardening accordingly to the weather. If you live in an area where the ground freezes during the winter, do not plant anything before frost is expected. If you live in a warmer area, take a break during the warmest months of summer to avoid wasting too much water.
Check for weeds often in your garden as they will leech nutrients from the soil. Weeds can grow at a high rate of speed and overwhelm the resources available to your plants. Take the time to check for weeds at least twice a week to catch them while they are new shoots.
As you can see, there is a lot of very useful pointers that can help you get better results. It requires a lot of work and patience, but it will be worth it in the end. By following the above tips, you are well on your way to becoming a more successful gardener.