Embarking on a gardening journey can be a roller coaster of experiences, from disappointing yields to battling pests and diseases. However, after about two years, my garden took a significant turn for the better and started producing very large yields. Surprisingly, the game-changer wasn’t a magical solution or secret ingredient but an unstoppable thirst for learning. In this post, I’ll share the incredible resources that transformed my garden into a thriving ecosystem, and you can apply them to your own backyard oasis.
My breakthrough for great garden yields came from an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Diving headfirst into gathering information made a remarkable difference. Today, I’ll guide you through the learning phases that turned my gardening journey around.
Learning Phases:
Basics:
- UF IFAS Website:
My first favorite resource was the UF IFAS website, offering information on Florida-friendly landscaping, edible gardens, Master Gardener programs, and planting calendars. The vegetable section provided detailed insights into each crop’s varieties, planting times, and care instructions. - Local Extension Offices:
Local extension offices, also found on the UF IFAS website, became invaluable. I reached out via email, attaching pictures when needed, and received prompt and helpful responses. These experts, often Master Gardeners, are a free resource providing guidance on everything from pests to soil testing. - Books:
Books played a crucial role in my learning journey. “Florida Fruit and Vegetable Gardening” by Robert Bowden was an excellent beginner’s guide, complementing the UF IFAS website. For those who prefer audiobooks, it’s a convenient alternative.
Intermediate:
- FLgardening.com:
The website flgardening.com became a go-to resource for its comprehensive information on different veggies, including pest control, soil requirements, and varieties. The site’s owner also sells seasonal variety packs, making it easier for gardeners to explore diverse, Florida-friendly options. - Social Media Groups:
Joining gardening groups on platforms like Facebook provided a chance to connect with local gardeners. While comments varied in reliability, these groups offered valuable insights, recommendations, and opportunities for plant swaps. - YouTube:
YouTube became a treasure trove of practical knowledge. Watching local YouTubers and creators from other regions expanded my understanding of gardening practices. It’s a visual and interactive way to learn from others’ experiences. - Books:
“Florida’s Survival Garden” by David the Good and “The Perennial Vegetables” by Eric Toensmeier were excellent intermediate-level reads. David the Good’s organic gardening approach and Eric’s insights into perennial vegetables added depth to my gardening knowledge.
Advanced:
- Observation and Experience:
The advanced phase involves personal observation and experience. Recognizing the uniqueness of my garden’s microclimate, I applied the scientific method: observe, question, theorize, predict, test, assess, change, and repeat. - Personal Experimentation:
Taking watermelons as an example, I experimented by adjusting one factor at a time. Changing the growing time to spring reduced fungal diseases, and further adjustments addressed pest pressures. This method allowed me to fine-tune my gardening approach based on my garden’s specific conditions. - Scientific Method in Gardening:
Applying the scientific method to gardening means understanding that failures are opportunities to learn and improve. By isolating variables, testing hypotheses, and making incremental changes, I continually enhance my garden yields.
In conclusion, the #1 reason behind my successful yields in the garden is an unstoppable thirst for learning. From resources like the UF IFAS website to intermediate platforms like flgardening.com and social media groups, and finally, advanced stages involving personal experimentation, the journey is an ongoing, enriching process.
Remember, your garden is unique, and learning from your own experiences is a valuable aspect of becoming a proficient gardener. Embrace the joy of gardening, keep learning, and let each season bring new insights and successes to your garden. Happy gardening and happy learning!
