Most gardening lessons are learned from mistakes. You can choose the trial-and-error route or learn from other people’s mistakes. Of course, it is a lot better to learn from the latter. Unfortunately, there is also the possibility of making mistakes from misguided advice.

Before you get sceptical, it is worth noting that even the most experienced gardeners make mistakes. That said, here are some common gardening mistakes you should avoid.

Not Testing Soils

Most gardeners do not test the soil in their gardens. This means they embark on gardening without an idea of what nutrients are available or absent on their grounds. However, testing your soils occasionally helps you grow plants that thrive in your garden conditions. It’s only after conducting tests that you can tell what to add to the soil to make it favourable to what you want to plant.

Poor Watering

There is a lot to learn about watering. Watering mistakes revolve around employing the wrong techniques or timing. For example, watering the leaves, fruits, or flowers is counterproductive, as it promotes the spread of mould, mildew and bacterial diseases. Regarding timing, most people make the mistake of watering during the day (when it is hot). For the best results, schedule your watering in the morning or night when the temperatures are still cool.

Not Adding Compost

Plants require nutrients to grow. However, most gardeners don’t put much effort into replenishing these nutrients. This means that their gardens produce way below their potential. A smart gardener should routinely add some compost to their garden for the best results.

Skimping on Pest Control

There are all manner of garden pests in our gardens. Using harsh chemicals to get rid of them is assuredly not the best way to go about this process. Instead, for the best results, gardeners should employ safer controls such as choosing pest-resistant plants and encoring beneficial insects and birds to eat destructive pests.