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Gardening Skills

Not Rocket Science

Gardening can hardly be described as rocket science but, having said that, some people seem to be far more successful at it than others.

Furthermore it seems that gardening success is not necessarily guaranteed by the amount of hard work we put into it. What we need is the knowledge to help us do the right things at the right time, combined with an understanding of how to get the work done with the least amount of effort.

In some cases minimising the workload may involve using mechanised help. However we must never forget that for many gardeners, much of the pleasure and satisfaction they derive from their gardens comes from producing fine flowers and produce by their own physical efforts.

It is all a matter of getting the balance right. So, for example, few gardeners would choose not to use a lawn mower to cut the grass. However, the same gardeners may not view a rotovator as an acceptable alternative to digging over a plant by hand.

The aim of these pages is to explain some of the techniques that will help you achieve what you really want from your garden, for example:

The aim of these pages is to explain some of the techniques that will help you achieve what you really want from your garden, for example:


  • When a lot of digging is called for, it helps if you appreciate the principles of levers when holding and using a spade or fork.

  • Pruning a tree or shrub for best decorative effect, whilst taking due care for the health of the plant requires a good eye, a steady hand and a knowledge of what best suits each species.

  • Successful propagation requires an understanding of what each type of plant prefers by way of soil, temperature, humidity, times for sowing, methods of propagation and sometimes a gentle touch.

  • If you want to make best use of a greenhouse, cold frame or cloches, you will need to understand some of the principles of hygiene, pest control and how to maintain the appropriate balance of temperature, humidity, light and ventilation.

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Learn from Those Who Know

Garden Pool surrounded by flowering shrubs

You can learn the theory from books or websites such as this one, but there is no real substitute for learning from those who have honed their skills over many years. The good news is that virtually every enthusiastic gardener is also enthusiastic about passing on their know-how to others.

In addition to the basic skills that are most directly associated with gardening, you may need to undertake repairs to greenhouses, sheds, fences and other garden structures, so you need some basic joinery skills. Tools need to be sharpened, cleaned and adjusted, so a little engineering ability comes in handy. In some cases you may need to maintain and repair powered tools, so some electrical knowledge or automotive experience may be required.

If you are just starting gardening you should not feel overwhelmed by all this. There are always people around who will offer advice and lend a helping hand when it is needed. There is often competition between gardeners but there is much comradeship as well.



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