Are you keen to sort out your garden, but have been put off due to previous failures? It can be disheartening when your gardening efforts come to nothing, and in many cases you’ll have no idea what went wrong. If you want to give it another go, here are a few tips that will give your plants the best chance possible.

Soil

Different plants require different kinds of soil to thrive. Take peat or clay soils, for example, these are heavy and retain a lot of moisture. Sandy soils on the other hand are lighter and will drain more quickly. Different plants will require different types of soil, so it’s important to do your research rather than just plant them in anything you have to hand. It’s also advisable to test the pH level too as some plants prefer acidic soil and some more alkaline. Getting the soil right is a fundamental step, as it means whatever you plant stands the best chance of survival.

Watering

Even if you use the correct type of soil, you still need to get the moisture level right with watering. Too little and they will shrivel and dry up, too much and the roots can become waterlogged and rotten. In short, there’s a fine balance; you don’t want to neglect your garden but don’t kill it with kindness either. In most cases, just watering to keep the soil lightly moist will keep plants happy. If you haven’t had any rain for a while, then use a hose or watering can.

Temperature

Many plants will struggle to flourish if the temperature isn’t right. If you plan on growing outdoors you need to appreciate the climate zone you’re in and take steps to ensure you’re best supporting your plants.

This shouldn’t put you off growing plants that aren’t best suited to our changeable climate. Tropical plants can thrive within a greenhouse for example. I tend to prefer Eden Birdlip greenhouses as there’s no bar under the door so you can get in and out with a wheelbarrow. Greenhouses can be hot, warm or just a cold frame to protect them from harsh winds, so do your research before making any costly mistakes.

Competition

Finally, certain plants should never be put next to each other as they will compete for the same nutrients in the soil. For this reason, planning out your plot before you start planting up is key. If you’re planting things purely for aesthetics and haven’t given this due attention, this could well be the reason if your efforts fail. Teach yourself which plants are natural ‘friends’ and will work well when they are planted together, and those which will compete for the same nutrients.

Have you ever had a failure in the garden which has put you off trying again? Now you’re aware of some of the issues, would you be prepared to give it another shot?