Not preparing the soil before planting
We have sandy soil, so soil preparation is important. Simply digging a hole and plonking a plant in won’t work well. Mix in compost, aged manure, or even some soil improver to help your soil hold on to moisture and nutrients.
Overwatering
Lots of overenthusiastic gardeners can go overboard with watering, but most plants hate soggy roots. While seedlings and cuttings do need regular drinks to get going, once they’re established, switch to deeper, less frequent watering. It encourages roots to grow down where the soil stays cooler and more moist – much better for your plant’s long‑term health.
Planting sun lovers in the shade
If you have a shady garden, you’ll never have success with sun‑loving plants, no matter how much you love them! Check your garden at different times during the day to see which areas get sunlight, and for how long – then choose your plants to suit those conditions.
Planting too close together
It’s easy to get carried away when planting out seedlings – they’re so tiny, and the space looks so empty! But overcrowding leads to poor airflow, weak growth, and a higher risk of pests and disease. Stick to the spacing guide on your seed packets or labels.
Planting out of season
Many of us probably have planted seeds or cuttings at the wrong time of the year and watched them sprout a little to start with but then give up. Timing matters, so use a local planting calendar as your guide. It’s not just about the right temperature – it’s also about rainfall, daylight hours, and seasonal pests.
Not pruning your shrubs and small trees
Pruning can feel a bit scary, but leaving your plants to their own devices often results in a tangled, unproductive mess. A good seasonal prune helps direct energy into new growth, flowering and fruiting, and keeps your plants looking tidy and vigorous. If you have large trees – it’s best to get some professional advice.
Ignoring pests and diseases until it’s too late
Seen a few aphids? A little leaf curl? It’s tempting to think it’ll sort itself out – but pests multiply fast, and some diseases spread like wildfire. Make a habit of checking your plants regularly. Early action, whether it’s picking off bugs by hand or applying an insecticide, should do the trick.
Not mulching
In our climate, mulch is your garden’s best friend. It keeps the soil cool, holds in moisture, and reduces weeds. Use organic mulch like straw or wood chips around your plants. Just keep it a few centimetres away from stems to avoid rot.
Forgetting to feed your plants
Soil doesn’t stay fertile forever – especially in sandy areas. If your plants look a bit tired, they might just be hungry. Feed them with a balanced slow‑release fertiliser or liquid seaweed tonic every few weeks during the growing season. Think of it as giving them a nutritious snack to keep them going.
Trying to grow everything
It’s easy to fall in love at the nursery and come home with a boot full of random plants. But unless you have the space, time, and conditions to support them all, some are bound to struggle. Start with a few reliable, seasonal performers that suit your garden’s microclimate.
Gardening is all about learning by doing, and mistakes are part of the journey. Every failed seedling or limp lettuce is a step toward a more beautiful, thriving garden, so don’t give up. Just keep digging, planting, and enjoying the process!
