Backyard gardening is is often popular when people grow their own food in an effort to save money in difficult economic times. Many people also find gardening a relaxing and rewarding pursuit as well, and many people insist that the vegetables from their own gardens taste better than anything they can buy at the supermarket. Hundreds of books have been written for the backyard gardener and tips abound. A handful of these tips can greatly increase yields and enjoyment for any backyard gardener.
First and foremost any backyard gardener must consider location. A successful garden requires adequate sun. Watch your back yard for a couple of days to see which areas get the most sun, and put your garden there. Consider what you wish to accomplish with your garden. If you are planning on preserving food by canning or freezing, plan a larger garden than if you simply wish to have a few fresh vegetables now and then.
When planning a garden, take into account several factors. Climate, particularly length of the growing season, and rainfall are key factors that will determine what crops will do well. Consult your local agricultural office or almost any catalog that sells seeds for a map that will tell you what agricultural zone you are in. Then use this information to choose varieties that suit your area. Certain types of melons, for example, do not do well in cooler climes while some crops, like broccoli, struggle in warmer areas.
Soil composition is important for any backyard gardener to consider. Soils vary widely even within small geographical areas. It may be a good idea to have your soil tested or to buy a basic do-it-yourself type of soil testing kit. This will tell you the pH of your soil as well as relative amounts of nutrients. Consulting your local agricultural extension office or asking questions at a local garden center can also help you learn about local soil conditions. Knowing as much as possible about your soil will make it easier to prepare it for planting.
Preparing soil for planting is paramount. Be sure to till or cultivate the soil deeply, and mix in as much organic matter and compost as you can. Some soils may require adding conditioners to raise or lower the pH. Soils with lots of sand or clay may need large amounts of peat moss or fresh compost to improve soil texture. A compost pile can provide a source of organic material to improve soil quality and nourish plants.
Plan your garden carefully. Many excellent books, many of which are available at the local library, as well as numerous Internet resources have information about garden layouts. Gardens can be laid out traditionally in rows using raised beds, in square plots for intensive gardening, and even with extensive vertical growing apparatus to increase yields per area. Research several methods and choose the one you think will work for you.
Water is very important. Keep plants well watered. It is better to water deeply and less frequently than to water in small amounts very frequently. Rain barrels and drip irrigation systems can help to conserve water. Mulching plants cuts down on water use since mulch keeps down weeds, which compete for water, as well as reducing the amount of soil moisture that is lost due to evaporation.
While no backyard gardener enjoys pulling weeds, keeping the garden as free of weeds as possible will increase yields and help keep the garden free of pests and disease. Pest control is also important and catching pest problems early will greatly reduce potential losses. Keep an eye on plants for pests and treat them as soon as any sign is found. Controls for almost every kind of garden pest can be found at the local garden center, many of them organic.