Are you interested in gardening? Recently, gardening has evolved beyond a mere hobby to become a part of a more sustainable lifestyle, attracting increasing attention. In this article, I start with the basics of gardening and introduce the charm of home gardening, which can be done both indoors and outdoors. And I’ve organized some fundamental information to help anyone step into the world of gardening easily.

Meaning of Gardening

Gardening is the act of planting and caring for plants in a given space, cultivating a garden and living in harmony with nature. The term originates from “gardening” and encompasses a wide range of activities from tending to a small vegetable garden or flower pots as a personal hobby to professional garden design and management.

In Western countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, where garden culture is well-developed, many households tend gardens in their yards or vegetable patches. Even without a yard, cultivating plants in a balcony or living room can also be considered a form of gardening, often referred to as “home gardening.”

Gardener vs. Gardening

Gardener refers to a professional who designs and maintains gardens. These experts rely on their deep knowledge of botany, soil science, and landscape design to harmoniously sustain and enhance the ecosystems of various plants. Gardeners are both artists and specialists who cultivate life through a deep connection with nature.

On the other hand, gardening is a hobby that anyone can enjoy. Without the need for specialized knowledge or skills, individuals can plant and nurture plants, creating their own little gardens. Gardening allows for personal expression and creativity, offering a colorful and diverse way to decorate one’s space. It also facilitates a connection with nature, which can help alleviate everyday stress and contribute to emotional well-being.

Planting vs. Gardening

So, how do planting and gardening differ? Planting refers to the act of putting plants into the ground or pots. It can be seen as the first step in gardening, primarily focusing on setting up the initial conditions for plant growth. Planting involves considering factors such as the type of plant, the condition of the soil, and the location where the plant is to be placed.

Gardening, on the other hand, goes beyond planting by continually managing and caring for the plants to ensure they thrive. It involves meticulously monitoring the plants’ conditions based on the weather and environment, and performing various activities necessary for the plants’ health and growth, such as watering, fertilizing, pest control, and pruning. Through this process, gardeners naturally interact and connect with the plants, gaining a deeper understanding and respect for the rhythms of nature.

Easy Home Gardening Guide

Home gardening is a great way to bring nature closer to home, whether you have an indoor area, a small balcony, or a terrace. Let’s look at some essential preparations and basic guidelines before you start.

Home Gardening Tools and Supplies

To begin home gardening, you’ll need some basic tools such as a transplant spade, gloves, a watering can, and compost (or fertilizer). If you plan to grow plants indoors, you will also need pots or planters. Starting with just the essential tools is sufficient, and it’s advisable not to buy too many tools initially. Instead, take the time to observe and allow your plants to adapt to your home environment comfortably.

Choosing Plants Suitable for Your Home

Personal taste is important when choosing plants for home gardening, but it is also essential to consider whether your home environment is conducive to the plants’ growth. Factors to consider when selecting plants include the watering frequency, sunlight exposure, ventilation, temperature and humidity, plant size, and the difficulty of care.

For small spaces, plants with excellent air-purifying abilities, low-light plants, and herbs are suitable. For instance, plants like Spathiphyllum and Sansevieria grow well even under indoor lighting. Additionally, herbs like rosemary and basil grow well on windowsills and can also be used in cooking.

Starting from Seeds vs. Starting from Potted Plants

As mentioned earlier, starting from seeds falls under planting. If you are new to home gardening, it is recommended to start with somewhat grown plants indoors. While watching a plant sprout from a seed can be very rewarding and joyful, if you are new to gardening, this process can be challenging and cause impatience.

Basics of Home Gardening Care: Watering and Fertilizing

Watering is crucial when you first start growing plants. While the frequency of watering varies greatly depending on the type of plant, there is a common method that can generally be used. Most plants grow well when watered as the soil begins to dry out. How can you tell? Simply touch the surface of the soil with your hand to see if it’s dry. Particularly when you are new to gardening, be careful not to overwater, as this is a common cause of root rot due to excess moisture.

Frequency of fertilization depends on the type of plant, the type of fertilizer, and the growth stage of the plant. Generally, feeding plants fertilizer once a month during their growth period can be beneficial. The recommended amount also varies depending on whether you use organic or chemical fertilizers. Like watering, over-fertilizing can harm plants, so remember the adage ‘more is just as bad as less.’