Common Vegetable Gardening Mistakes

Creating your own vegetable garden can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, things can go wrong regardless of whether you have been gardening for a few weeks or several years. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid if you wish to keep your garden in its perfect form.

1. Seeding Too Soon

When spring comes, most gardeners cannot wait to start growing their gardens. The temperatures in your area can drop when you least expect. Delicate crops like melons, cucumbers, and tomatoes are very sensitive to temperatures. If you wish to give your garden a head start, grow these plants under protection like a milk jug, grow cloth, or milk jug.

If you start seeding too soon at the beginning of the season, the plants will grow too tall before you can plant them. Patience is key when planting your vegetable garden. If you aren’t sure of the right time to start seeding, consider seeking the opinion of a professional.

2. Watering too Little or Too Much

Plants need some water to thrive. Consistent watering is a sure way to promote good harvest. However, most crops only need an inch of moisture every week. Use a drip irrigation system to give them the moisture they need during dry spells. A rain gauge cam help you keep track of rainfall. The signs of under watering your plants are apparent. They include stunted fruit and yellow leaves.

If, however, your vegetables are receiving too much water, and they don’t have enough drainage, the roots may start rotting. The leaves may turn brown or yellow. You shouldn’t have puddles of water in your garden. If you do, consider improving your drainage. Mulch may help you maintain moisture consistency.

3. Failing to Read Instructions

Always read and follow the instructions on your seed packet. When transplanting crops, ensure that you know all that is expected of you. Follow instructions for spacing, thinning, and harvesting as well.

4. Allowing Weeds to Take Over

Weeds will compete with your vegetables for water, nutrients, and space. If you do not keep them in check, they may choke your crops. Eliminate weeds as soon as you notice them.

A single weed can thrive, set seed, and be a problem for many years. If you aren’t careful, you may be forced to deal with a weed problem longer than you expect.  The first step is to spread mulch over your soil immediately after planting. If weeds start breaking through the barrier, you can hand remove them. Chemical herbicides are not great for food gardens.

5. Poor Fertilization Habits

Find out the best fertilizers for your garden and keep track of the best times to use them. Regular fertilizer applications promote balance in your plants nutrition. If you do not fertilize appropriately, your garden is unlikely to meet your expectations.

Even though most vegetable gardeners learn their lessons the hard way, you don’t have to. With a team of professionals like Garden Club London, you can avoid mistakes and create a beautiful vegetable garden.

Clare Louise