Gardening supply checklist

Gardening is still work

Most jobs can't be started without the proper supplies. Gardening is no different. In order to start gardening you will undoubtedly need gardening supplies. There are many supplies that can be included on this list and most don't have to be purchased immediately or at the onset of the project. You will probably need most if not all throughout the course of your gardening career. The following is a brief list of some important supplies.

• Fertilizers, Soil Amendments and Plant Foods
• Garden Seeds
• Tools and Accessories
• Pest and Disease Control

Nutrients

Every living thing needs some form of nutrition. For plants, these nutrients come in many forms. The most commonly applied nutrients are nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K). Most plants respond well to these three elements. The response is usually faster growth and better production. These fertilizers are especially important for home gardens and landscaping.

Organic matter such as grass clippings, tree leaves, shrubbery, and tree trimmings are all excellent sources of plant nutrients. These sources had already accumulated the requisite and essential nutrients for their own growth needs. Upon decomposition, those nutrients in the organic material become available for reuse. This is the best option because you valuable materials in the environment while reducing yard waste. Other organic materials like animal manure are also good sources of plant nutrients.

Garden seeds and seedlings

What seeds you purchase depends on what type of flower, plant, or vegetable you want to grow in your garden. This, of course, is subjective, but one of the more entertaining undertakings of gardening. With the right care and attention, these seemingly lifeless seeds will be your garden. It's a pretty amazing process.

Most retail stores carrying garden supplies and tools will carry garden seeds (perennial, annual, or vegetable). These packages are inexpensive and contain between 20 and 40 seeds per package. Most of the packages have instructions and information about planting the specific seeds. If you choose to transplant your plants, visit a local nursery to get the best deals and products. It's important to prepare the soil before planting and transplanting.

Tools and accessories

If only hands and fingers were enough when it came to gardening tools. Unfortunately, we, fragile humans, need the assistance of tools. The following tools will be much needed when you're gardening.

• Wheelbarrow: Used to haul earth or transplanted plants. Other uses exist, but for gardening, you'll probably use it for hauling dirt or debris.

• Shovels and Spades: You should use a sharp spade for digging and a shovel for picking up excess debris. Handle lengths depend on the user's comfort, but longer handles offer more leverage, making dirt removal easier.

• Pruners: This tool is used to shape bushes and shrubs. They are also used to maintain healthy plants. Make sure the tool choose is comfortable.

• Garden and Soaker Hoses: Water is essential for the survival of all plants and we can't always count on rain. It is important to water your plants and gardens frequently. Soaker hoses are the best source for a constant, yet not destructive stream. Try to provide at least one inch of water to plants and gardens every week.

Pest control

First, you need to identify the problematic pest. Sometimes, what might appear to be a pest is actually not, but rather the best thing for your garden. Once the creature is identified as a foe, take a sample of the creature to the nearest nursery or extension office. This will help further identify the problem and provide the best answer for eliminating the problem, hopefully, once and for all. Try to remove pests with a natural method first. If this doesn't do the trick, use a recommended pesticide.