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Guest Post: "Top Tips for Amateur Gardeners"

When I moved into my current home in 2007, I knew absolutely nothing about gardening.  However, my yard was so cute and inviting that I knew it was time to give it a try.   For this, I called on one of my dearest friends, Bonnie.  I knew if anyone could teach me what to do, and more importantly what not to do, it was her.  Let's just say she did not disappoint.  In case you missed it, click HERE to check out how far I've come over the years.
I asked Bonnie if she'd do me the honor of being my very first Guest Blogger.  She's given me so much great gardening advice over the years that I figured you could learn a lot from her as well.  So, in her own words here are....

Bonnie's Top Tips for the Amateur Gardener



  • Always wear gloves….not only do they keep your hands clean; they keep the creepy crawlies off!  Nothing like grabbing a lizard with no gloves on.  EEK! Get a snug fitting pair that is easy to work in. I suggest leather. 
         I have 2 pairs of these......


Lowe's

  LOVE!

  • Know what zone you live in and what works best in your area.  Sure you want to be all “exotic”…but trust me if it’s not meant to grow where you live, it’s not going to do well.  I’ve wasted lots of money and time trying to have that unique plant that ultimately dies on me.  Click on the map below to find your zone. 

National Gardening Association.

  • Use your resources…. My favorite for my area is the USDA's Cooperative Extension Service.
USDA Logo

          Each state has one. (FIND YOURS) These folks are the experts and just about everything you
          need for gardening can be found on their sites; anything from care tips, varieties, insects,
          diseases, etc. I’ve even printed out the info I need and started my own resource binder.

Bed Bath and Beyond

  • Don’t plant anything where you don’t want to drag the water hose in August!  Those flowers look great down by the mailbox in April & May....
Photo Source

....but trust me, you’ll either curse the summer heat while you are watering in July & August or the flowers will be burnt to a crisp, like mine tend to be.

Photo Source
  • Invest in Preen….after you get your beds weed-free this stuff keeps them that way.  Duh…a NO Brainer!  Unless you just love weeding…
Preen 16 Lb. Drum Garden Weed Preventer
  • Try to be water smart…water storing crystals are great for pots and for planting.  They absorb water and release it when the plants get dry.

Great for retaining moisture in terracotta pots and moss baskets that dry out quickly.  Also, using mulch, pine needles, Spanish moss, crushed shells, river rocks, etc to cover the dirt…not only looks pretty but retains moisture.  Looks super great in pots.

  •  Invest in a good shovel and pair of pruners…that’s really all you’ll ever need.
Corona 4-1/2" Forged Steel Hand Pruner
Lowe's

  • Lastly find friends in gardening….. Nothing is better than sharing plants.  It’s a great way to get rid of plants that need dividing and an even better (and cheaper) way to fill an empty spot!
Bhg.com


Bonnie Moody


Excellent tips Bonnie!!!

Did you enjoy Bonnie's guest blog post?  Have a question for her?  Let us know by leaving a  comment.  We'd love to hear from you.  
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4 Comments - Click here to join the conversation!:

Anonymous said... Reply To This Comment

Bonnie is so smart! I know that she must cringe each time she comes to my house over the things I kill, but she certainly does inspire me to never give up! :)

Charri said... Reply To This Comment

Bonnie, love the gardening tips! I really had to laugh at "dragging the hose in August".....so true!!

Dwell by Cheryl said... Reply To This Comment

I know guys, Bonnie seriously taught me almost everything I know. I smell another guest post coming....

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