Spring is upon us, and those of you who are garden enthusiasts might be chomping at the bit to get knee-deep in the dirt again. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you might be thinking about starting a garden this spring. In either case, you need the right stuff before you start getting in the gardening groove. Read on for tips and tricks to prepare you for getting back in the garden this spring.
Get the Right Tools
If you’re new to gardening, you might be tempted to drop a load of money on a bunch of gardening tools. However, any veteran gardener knows that the basics will do. For example, you’ll need the right type of shovel, a hand trowel, a garden hoe, and pruning shears. Depending upon what type of garden you’re growing and how big it is, you may also need a wheelbarrow to transport soil. In truth, you don’t need a whole lot of equipment, and you can obtain most of these tools on the cheap at yard sales or estate sales.
Plan Your Water Source
If you have an existing garden, you likely already have a system to water your garden on hot, dry days. However, if you’re starting a new garden, consider planting it next to a water source such as an outside faucet. If you don’t have a water source nearby, you’ll need a watering can. Better yet, think about putting out water collection barrels so you can repurpose rainwater for your garden.
Water Yourself Too
While on the subject of water, make sure you have plenty of it on hand for yourself too. Gardening can take a lot out of the body, so you need to be mindful about staying hydrated. Take a cooler or several water bottles with you while working in the garden. This will cut down on trips in the house, as well as make it easy for you to grab a gulp in between planting seeds.
Get the Right Gear
Gardening can wreak havoc on your hands. Therefore, invest in a high-quality pair of durable gardening gloves if you don’t already have a pair. Gardening is a dirty job too, so you’ll want to pull out your old, grubby clothes. While these duds might not scream “high fashion” they are certainly practical (and often the comfiest threads you might own!). Also think about getting a good, old-fashioned floppy hat. This will serve you well as you protect yourself from the damaging effects of the sun.
Prepare Your Skin
Speaking of the sun, always apply sunscreen before tackling the garden. You might also want to use a revitalizing stem cell serum to replenish essential oils in your skin after a long day of playing in the dirt. Remember that while extremely rewarding, gardening can also take a toll on your skin. That’s why it’s important to use the best skincare products and sunscreen to protect your skin from tough weather conditions and intense sun rays.
Keep a First Aid Kit at the Ready
You might think we’re being overcautious on this tip, but in actuality, gardening is not for sissies. Accidents happen, and scrapes and cuts are almost inevitable while frolicking in the garden. Make sure you have a first aid kit nearby and make sure it is stocked with everything you need.
Yes, bandages are a must. But also think about other things you might need. For example, keep an epinephrine auto injector if you are allergic to bees, or have an antivenom kit if your garden shares the same space as poisonous snakes. Also pack disinfectants, hand sanitizers as well as first aid for bug bites.
Don’t Bug Out
While we’re talking about bug bites, make sure you take measures to protect yourself from them. If you can, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect you from ticks, and other biting bugs. You might also think about applying an organic, topical bug spray before launching into your gardening ventures. You can even light citronella candles or incense, as this is a natural way to dissuade pesky bugs while working in the garden.
The Final Word on Preparing to Get Back in the Garden
Last, but not least – have fun. If you love to garden, that’s a no-brainer. If you’re new to gardening, don’t get too caught up in the details. Instead, try to have a good time while gardening. Sure, planting is both good for the earth, and it can yield great results for your dinner table. However, remember that gardening is also therapeutic, so enjoy getting dirty and back in the garden this spring. Also, Check Summer and Winter rattan furniture sets
