Beginner Gardner Technology, Tips and Tools
Watching something grow is inspiring, from the first timid sprouts breaking through the dirt to the juicy, mouth-watering fruit they yield. Growing plants display determination, perseverance and strength. Gardening motivates people to exercise creativity, share the fruits of their labor and connect to the earth and other people. Whether you have a tiny corner on the windowsill or an acre to play with, gardening is a simple way to refresh your spirit and inspire those around you.
Technology Gardening Tools
Having a smartphone or tablet with you in the garden today is as valuable as the “Farmers’ Almanac” was a few decades ago. Tablet plans are relatively affordable, according to T-mobile’s phone plans, and immediate access to gardening apps and weather information is more convenient than waiting for the latest edition of gardening magazines.
Although your smartphone can’t help you weed and water, it can help you quickly access information about fertilizer types and pest identification. Gardeners should explore the following apps for inspiration and information:
- The Beginner’s Gardening Guide puts clear, concise information in the beginner’s hands. Quick facts and basic information, along with tips on designing and tending vegetable and flower gardens. This app will get you up and growing in no time.
- Garden Bugs includes pictures of hundreds of garden pests, from the common to not-so-common. Users find helpful information to eliminate or control unwanted insects and diseases.
- The Landscaper’s Companion is packed with information and extras. You can add photos and personal notes and tag plant topics for later review. The encyclopedia-style format delivers extensive information about more than 26,000 plant species.
Consulting with the Experts
For design techniques and inspiration, consulting with experts can get you headed down the right path. A garden consultant makes the gardening process an enjoyable experience for you, since you’re able to learn by asking an expert questions, says garden expert Cristin M. Larson.
The National Gardening Association (NGA) publishes helpful tips and suggestions for gardeners based on where they live and how much space is available, as well as information for brand new gardeners and aspiring horticulturists on a plethora of topics related to planting, harvesting and growing. Gardeners can find access to questions about everything from establishing a grape arbor, to decorating with plants in small spaces.
Container planting is an excellent way to get creative and experiment. Combining flowering plants with herbs or vegetables and ornamentals in the same pot creates visual and aromatic textures.
Gardener’s Supply Company sells plants, seed, tools and growing supplies. Their website has a host of informational resources, from blogs and articles written by professional gardeners to stories about successes and failures directly from home gardeners just like you. This is a nice company website to visit for inspiration and garden ideas.
What gardening resources have you found to be helpful when you’re just starting out? Let us know on MomLifeTV’s Facebook page.
