Gardening is a rewarding hobby that provides beauty and bounty. But to keep your garden thriving, there’s a bit of know-how involved. Here are some essential tips on watering, pinching, and pruning to help you get the most out of your plants.
Water Smarter, Not Harder
When it comes to watering, timing is everything. Watering in the early morning allows your plants to absorb the moisture before the heat of the day causes it to evaporate. This ensures your plants get the hydration they need to develop lush leaves and flavorful fruits and vegetables. Ever bitten into a bitter cucumber? That’s a sign your plant didn’t get enough water. Remember, water early and water often for the best results.
Keep Your Herbs Tidy
Herbs are a wonderful addition to any garden, but they can quickly become unruly if not maintained. When your herbs start to flower, it’s time to give them a trim. For instance, basil plants produce lovely flowers, but once they do, they divert energy from leaf production. By pinching off these flowers, you encourage the plant to focus on growing more leaves. And let’s be honest, you can never have too much basil! If you find yourself with an abundance, don’t worry—we’ve got tips for using up extra basil later on.
Time for a Trim
Pruning might seem counterintuitive, but it’s crucial for healthy plant growth. For over a decade, I had a lantana named Carlos Lantana. Each year, I would reluctantly prune her back, even though my instinct was to leave her be. However, pruning promotes new growth, and Carlos always bounced back to become the biggest and brightest lantana in the neighborhood. Although I’ve since moved and left Carlos behind, I hope she’s still thriving.
By following these simple tips on watering, pinching, and pruning, you’ll help your garden flourish. Happy gardening! 🌿🌻
