Deirdre O Meara 
As the summer season approaches, many people are eager to start their own vegetable gardens. However, a pro gardener has warned beginners against making common mistakes that can hinder the growth of their plants. Known as Growing Home & Garden on social media, the woman shared three crucial tips that every beginner should know.
Firstly, she emphasized the importance of using the right soil. “You can’t just plant in any soil and expect your garden to grow,” she explained. Instead, she recommended using pots, containers, or raised garden beds, where gardeners can ensure that their plants have fertile soil to grow in. Planting straight into the ground without doing proper research can leave a lot up to chance.
The second mistake that she sees most often is gardeners planting vegetables that they wouldn’t normally eat. She advised people to plant foods that are fun and that they would actually enjoy consuming. This could mean growing a tomato variety that they’ve never heard of, super sweet strawberries, or unique hot peppers that are fun to taste with family and friends. She encouraged gardeners to branch out and find fun varieties of their favorite foods to grow so they can enjoy their harvest.
The final tip she shared was to learn about your planting zone. This is defined by the temperature in your geographical location. By googling your zip code and zone, you can find out what plants are suitable for your area. This is particularly important for perennial plants, as they need to be able to survive the winter and come back year after year. By selecting plants that grow in your planting zone, you can ensure that they will thrive in your garden.
Aspiring and established gardeners were quick to respond to the video, with many expressing their gratitude for the tips. One person wrote, “These tips are great! Happy growing.” Another shared their excitement for their first year with a greenhouse, saying, “I’ve planted for the last few years. This is my first year having a greenhouse so I got so many plants so me and my neighbors can have fruit.”
The pro gardener also asked her followers if they would like to see more videos like this in the future, to which many responded with enthusiasm. One person wrote, “Yes please! We did it in the ground this year, now I’m worried. But this year we are just testing everything. Whatever works, we will keep going!”
In conclusion, growing your own vegetables can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your research and avoid common mistakes. By using the right soil, planting foods you enjoy, and learning about your planting zone, you can set yourself up for success and enjoy a bountiful harvest.
