New Year’s Gardening Resolutions for Every Green Thumb
As the New Year dawns, it’s a perfect time to reflect on our gardening practices and set some resolutions to improve our green spaces. Here’s a roundup of gardening resolutions from experts in the field, each with tips and advice to help you achieve your gardening goals in 2023.
Protecting Pelargoniums
Pelargoniums, also known as geraniums, are beautiful plants that can brighten up any garden. However, they can be susceptible to frost damage during the winter months. To protect your pelargoniums, consider bringing them indoors or placing them in a sheltered area. You can also take cuttings in the fall to ensure you have replacements if any plants are lost.
Containing Containers
If you have a small garden or limited space, container gardening is a great way to grow plants. However, it’s important to choose the right size and type of containers for your plants and to be mindful of water management. Larger containers retain moisture better than smaller ones, so opt for bigger pots if possible.
Sowing Seeds Earlier
Don’t wait until spring to start sowing seeds. By starting earlier, you’ll give your plants more time to establish and enjoy them for a longer period. For first-year-flowering perennials, bananas, and brugmansias, sow seeds in February. For most other plants, early March is a good time to start sowing.
Planting Roses
Roses are a classic addition to any garden, and they’re surprisingly easy to grow. Choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. When planting roses, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the rose bush in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Growing Wisely
Don’t waste time and effort trying to grow plants that aren’t suited to your climate or space. Instead, focus on growing plants that you know will thrive in your conditions. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, soil type, and water availability. By choosing the right plants for your garden, you’ll have a better chance of success.
String Solutions
String is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of gardening tasks, from tying up plants to marking out rows. Keep a ball of string handy in your garden shed or tool bag, and you’ll always be prepared to tackle any job that comes up.
Repotting and Planting
Spring is the ideal time to repot houseplants and plant new ones in the garden. When repotting, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and use fresh potting mix. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting and place it in a bright spot.
Saving Water
Water conservation is becoming increasingly important, especially in areas prone to drought. There are a number of ways to save water in the garden, such as using drip irrigation systems, planting drought-tolerant plants, and collecting rainwater.
Winter Interest
Don’t let your garden look drab during the winter months. Add some winter interest by planting evergreens, shrubs with colorful berries, and winter-flowering bulbs. You can also create a winter garden by using decorative elements such as lanterns, bird feeders, and festive decorations.
New Home, New Garden
If you’ve recently moved into a new home, take some time to observe your garden and see how it changes throughout the seasons. Once you have a good understanding of your garden’s microclimate and conditions, you can start making plans for changes or additions.
Cut Flowers for Drying
Dried flowers are a beautiful and versatile way to decorate your home. Grow your own cut flowers for drying by choosing varieties that dry well, such as lavender, yarrow, and strawflowers. Hang your cut flowers upside down in a warm, dry place until they are completely dry.
Veg in a Small Space
Even if you have limited outdoor space, you can still grow your own vegetables. Consider growing vegetables in containers, window boxes, or vertical gardens. Choose space-saving varieties of vegetables, such as bush beans, compact tomatoes, and strawberries.
