5 Most Common Horticultural Mistakes - and How to Fix Them
Horticulture may require some trial and error. If you notice that one of your plants is not right, for example, you can try replanting elsewhere, giving it a little extra water, or adding more nutrients to the soil. Although you may have to try different tactics to fix the problem, there are a few universal gardening bugs to avoid, so you can keep your yard in excellent shape. Fortunately, most of them are easy to fix; Maybe you should switch to a watering system or natural pest control methods. But if you make sure to avoid these common horticultural mistakes, you will set your plants up for better success.
1. The soil is not tested
The soil in your yard can vary from one place to another. If you do not test the soil, you will not know what kind of nutrients (or its deficiency) is in your soil. Without that information, you have no way of knowing what to add to your soil for your plants to thrive. Soil can change from one growing season to another, so it is important to test your soil every year or two.
2. Watering the leaves
Overhead irrigation is not the best idea. Not only is there a risk of wasting water by blowing in the wind, but excessively wet leaves can become a breeding ground for fungi and other pathogenic microorganisms. Consider a drip irrigation system or soaking pipe instead. This way your plants get the moisture they need from the soil directly to the roots, where they are most needed. Plan your irrigation in the early morning before high heat and evaporation rate.
3. Do not add compost
Plants use nutrients when they grow. One of the best ways to fill the gap is to add compost. This decomposed organic matter helps your soil retain moisture better, while at the same time improving its drainage. You can buy it from garden centers or make it yourself at home; All you need is a bin to store your yard and kitchen waste. Then, in the fall or spring on your garden beds, add 1-2 inches of compost to the top of the soil.
4. Ignoring pest control
Aphids and other garden pests will work your plants faster. But using poisons alone is not the answer. Safe options for your family and the environment include choosing plants that are resistant to pests and diseases, encouraging the eating of beneficial insects and bird-killing bugs, removing pests by hand, and using strong water to knock down your plants. There are also many non-toxic sprays and traps you can try. The most important thing is to find the pests before the problem gets worse and deal with them as soon as they are detected.
5. Do not use mulch
Think of mulch as an insurance policy that protects all of your hard work. Like compost, it helps retain moisture in your soil (i.e. use less water in your garden), and some types of mulch can re-add essential nutrients to your soil. 3 inches thick mulch will help prevent weeds from germinating, which means less work for you!
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