Hello there! If you’ve ever dreamed of turning a tiny seed into a thriving plant or wished to pluck fresh vegetables right from your backyard, you’re in the perfect place. I’m just like you, a lover of nature and fresh produce, and I remember how daunting it felt to start my first garden.
But here’s the truth: gardening is for everyone. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a small balcony, there’s a way to make it work. And trust me, the joy of watching your plants grow is absolutely worth it. I’m here to guide you through every step of the way.
Let’s embark on this green journey together, transforming a patch of soil into a bountiful garden. Through trials, triumphs, and a bit of dirt under our nails, we’ll explore the wonders of gardening. So, grab your gloves, and let’s dig in!
How To Start A Garden For Beginners
Choosing the Right Gardening Method for You
Gardening is incredibly versatile, and one of the first steps in your journey is to choose a method that suits your space and lifestyle. Let’s explore a few popular options:
Raised Bed Gardening
Ideal for those with a bit of yard space. Raised beds are fantastic because they offer excellent drainage, improved soil conditions, and ease of access. You can control the soil quality better, and they’re kinder on your back too! If you have limited mobility or just don’t fancy bending down too much, raised beds are a great choice. Plus, they can be a stylish addition to your garden.
Container Gardening
Perfect for balcony dwellers or those with limited outdoor space. With container gardening, you can grow a surprising variety of plants in pots, from herbs and flowers to even small fruit trees. The key is choosing the right container size and ensuring good drainage. It’s a flexible method – you can rearrange your plants for optimal sun exposure, and it’s also a wonderful way to add greenery to urban spaces.
In-Ground Gardening
If you have the space, traditional in-ground gardening allows you to cultivate a larger area. It’s great for growing a wide range of plants, including larger vegetables and extensive flower beds. This method requires understanding your native soil and possibly enhancing it for better growth.
Vertical Gardening
When space is at a premium, think upwards! Vertical gardening involves growing plants on walls, trellises, or hanging containers. It’s not just space-efficient but can also be a stunning visual feature. Ideal for small yards, patios, or balconies.
Hydroponic Gardening
For the tech-savvy gardener or those interested in soil-less gardening, hydroponics is a fascinating option. Plants are grown in a nutrient-rich water solution, allowing for faster growth and yield. It can be set up indoors, which means you can garden year-round.
Community Gardening
If you lack space but want to experience the full joys of gardening, consider joining a community garden. It’s a great way to learn from others, share resources, and be part of a gardening community.
Each of these methods has its own set of advantages and considerations. Think about the time you can dedicate, your physical abilities, and the kind of gardening experience you want. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all in gardening – it’s all about what works best for you and your space. So, which method speaks to you? Let’s find out and get our hands dirty!
Getting Started with Your Garden
Embarking on your gardening journey begins with laying the right foundation. In this section, we’re going to dive into the essential first steps of starting your garden. From choosing the best plants that will thrive under your care, to finding the ideal spot where they can bask in just the right amount of sunlight and shade.
We’ll also demystify the world of soil – because understanding the ground beneath is key to a flourishing garden. Whether you’re looking at a sun-soaked balcony or a cozy backyard, these initial decisions will pave the way for a thriving green space. So, let’s get our green thumbs ready and start this exciting journey!
Choosing the Right Plants
Deciding what to grow is like setting the stage for a beautiful play. It’s important to choose plants that not only suit your garden’s conditions but also bring you joy.
Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Start Simple: If you’re new to gardening, begin with easy-to-grow plants. Herbs like basil and mint, vegetables like tomatoes and lettuce, and fruits like strawberries and raspberries are great starters. They are less fussy and provide quick gratification.
2. Consider Your Climate: Plants thrive in their ideal conditions. Check your hardiness zone, and choose plants that are well-suited to your local weather patterns and seasonal changes.
3. Space Matters: Assess how much space you have. Some plants need more room to spread out, while others are quite content in a small pot. If you’re limited on space, consider compact varieties or plants that grow well vertically.
4. Sunlight is Key: Observe how much sun your garden gets. Full sun, partial shade, or full shade? Choose plants that will thrive in the amount of light you have. For instance, leafy greens can tolerate more shade, while most flowering plants need full sun.
5. Edible or Ornamental? Decide if you want to grow a vegetable garden, an ornamental one, or a mix of both. While vegetables provide fresh produce, ornamental plants can beautify your space and attract pollinators.
6. Maintenance Level: Be realistic about how much time and effort you can dedicate. Some plants require more care, pruning, and attention than others. If you have a busy lifestyle, opt for low-maintenance varieties.
7. Experiment and Learn: Don’t be afraid to try growing different plants. Gardening is a learning experience, and every season brings new lessons.
Remember, the best part of gardening is the journey. It’s about learning what works and what doesn’t, and most importantly, it’s about enjoying the process. So, pick your plants, plant your seeds, and let the magic of growth begin!
Finding the Perfect Location
Choosing the right location for your garden is like finding the best seat in a theater – it can make a big difference in your experience and success.
Here’s how to pick the perfect spot:
1. Sunlight Considerations: Most vegetables and fruits require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Observe your potential garden area throughout the day to see how the sun moves across the space. Remember, some areas may receive more light in different seasons.
2. Proximity to Water Source: Make sure your garden is near a convenient water source. You’ll need to water regularly, and a nearby hose or water barrel can save a lot of effort. If you’re gardening on a balcony, think about how you’ll transport water to your plants.
3. Protection from Wind and Extreme Elements: Too much wind can harm delicate plants or dry out your soil. If you live in a particularly windy area, consider using fences, walls, or hedges as windbreaks. Similarly, think about how to protect your garden from extreme temperatures, whether it’s scorching sun or frost.
4. Accessibility and Comfort: Your garden should be easy to access for regular maintenance. If you plan to spend a lot of time in your garden, consider factors like the distance from your house, the ease of access for tools and supplies, and even the view from your garden.
5. Soil Quality: While soil can be improved, starting with good soil makes everything easier. If you’re planting directly in the ground, assess the soil quality. Is it rocky, clayey, sandy, or rich in organic matter? Raised beds can be a great solution if the native soil is challenging.
6. Drainage: Good drainage is crucial. Avoid areas that tend to collect standing water. If your heart is set on a problematic area, consider raised beds or improving the drainage system of the soil.
7. Space for Growth: Plan for the future. Plants grow and spread, so what starts as a small patch can quickly become crowded. Ensure there’s enough room for your plants to grow without competing too much for space and resources.
Choosing the right location is a blend of practicality and vision. Take your time to consider these factors, and remember, no garden is perfect. Embrace the challenges, and enjoy the process of creating a unique space that’s wholly yours. Let’s turn that spot you’ve been eyeing into a thriving garden!
Understanding Soil Types
Soil is not just dirt—it’s the lifeblood of your garden. The right soil can make or break your gardening success, so let’s dig into the basics of soil science:
1. Identifying Soil Type: Soil generally falls into categories like sandy, loamy, clay, or a mix. Sandy soil drains quickly but doesn’t hold nutrients well. Clay soil retains water and nutrients but has poor drainage. Loamy soil, a gardener’s dream, is the perfect balance of drainage and nutrient retention.
2. Testing Soil Quality: It’s a good idea to test your soil. Simple test kits are available at garden centers, which can tell you the pH level and the basic nutrient composition. Most plants prefer a neutral pH, but some might need more acidic or alkaline conditions.
3. Improving Soil Texture: If your soil is too sandy or too clayey, you can improve its texture. Adding organic matter like compost is often the best solution. It improves drainage in clay soils and water retention in sandy soils.
4. Nutrient Management: Plants need nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow. Compost and well-rotted manure are great organic ways to enrich your soil. For more specific nutrient needs, you might consider adding specific fertilizers.
5. Mulching: Mulch isn’t just decorative; it’s functional. It helps retain soil moisture, keeps the roots cool, and can gradually improve soil quality as it decomposes. Organic mulches, like straw or wood chips, are great choices.
6. Understanding Water Needs: Your watering routine depends largely on your soil type. Sandy soils need more frequent watering, while clay soils require less frequent but deeper watering. It’s crucial to understand this balance to prevent over or underwatering.
7. No-dig Gardening: This is a method where you add layers of organic matter on top of the soil instead of digging it in. It’s great for improving soil over time and is less labor-intensive.
Remember, taking care of your soil is taking care of your garden. It might not be the most glamorous part of gardening, but it’s definitely one of the most important. Healthy soil leads to healthy plants, which leads to a bountiful and beautiful garden. So, let’s treat it with the love and respect it deserves!
Preparing the Soil
Preparing your soil is like setting a strong foundation for a building—it’s essential for the health and growth of your plants. Here’s how to get your soil ready for planting:
1. Clearing the Area: Start by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area. This process ensures a clean slate for your plants to grow without competition or obstruction.
2. Testing and Adjusting Soil pH: If you haven’t already, test your soil’s pH. Most vegetables and flowers prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, you can adjust it. Lime can raise the pH of acidic soil, while sulfur can lower the pH of alkaline soil.
3. Enhancing Soil Quality: Add organic matter to your soil. This can be compost, aged manure, or leaf mold. Organic matter improves soil structure, aeration, and nutrient content, making it more hospitable for plant roots.
4. Tilling or Turning the Soil: If you’re working with an in-ground garden, till or turn the soil to a depth of about 12 inches. This process aerates the soil and mixes in the added organic matter. For raised beds, you can simply mix the soil and organic matter by hand.
5. Soil Fertility: Consider adding a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients. The key is to use it sparingly and according to the needs of the plants you intend to grow.
6. Creating a Level Surface: Once your soil is prepped, rake it into a smooth, level surface. This step is crucial for planting seeds or transplanting seedlings, as it ensures even soil contact and water distribution.
7. Watering Before Planting: Give your prepared soil a good watering a day before you plant. This step settles the soil and ensures it has adequate moisture for new plants or seeds.
Preparing your soil may seem like a lot of work, but it’s an investment in your garden’s future. Think of it as nurturing the very foundation that will support and feed your plants throughout their life. A well-prepared soil leads to a thriving garden, so let’s roll up our sleeves and get to it!
Planting and Maintenance
Now that we have our garden prepped and our tools ready, it’s time to get to the heart of gardening: planting and maintaining our garden. This section will guide you through the steps of planting your chosen plants and provide tips for keeping your garden healthy and vibrant.
Planting Your Garden
1. Understanding Planting Times: Timing is crucial. Research the best planting times for each plant in your region. Be mindful of the last frost dates in spring and first frost dates in fall.
2. Planting Seeds vs. Transplants: Decide whether to start from seeds or use transplants. Seeds are more economical and offer a wider variety, but transplants can give you a head start, especially in shorter growing seasons.
3. Proper Planting Technique: For seeds, follow the planting depth and spacing guidelines on the seed packet. For transplants, dig a hole just big enough for the root ball, and gently place the plant in, covering the roots with soil.
4. Watering After Planting: Give your new plants a good watering immediately after planting to settle the soil and provide necessary hydration.
Maintaining Your Garden
1. Regular Watering: Establish a consistent watering schedule. Early morning is typically the best time to water, reducing evaporation and fungal diseases.
2. Weeding: Stay on top of weeding. Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients and water. Regular weeding keeps them from getting out of control.
3. Mulching: Apply mulch around your plants to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth.
4. Pruning and Deadheading: Prune any diseased or damaged branches and deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth and more blooms.
5. Monitoring for Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for signs of pests and diseases. Early detection is key to managing them effectively.
6. Fertilizing: Feed your plants with the right type and amount of fertilizer to ensure they get the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
Remember, patience and observation are key in gardening. Each plant has its own needs and rhythms, and part of the joy of gardening is learning to understand and respond to these. With care and attention, your garden will not only grow but thrive, providing a sense of accomplishment and a bounty of benefits. Let’s nurture our garden with love and watch it flourish!
Dealing with Challenges
Gardening, like any journey, comes with its share of challenges. But don’t worry – with some knowledge and preparation, you can tackle these hurdles and keep your garden thriving. This section covers common gardening challenges and how to manage them effectively.
1. Pest Control:
- Identify the Culprits: First, identify what type of pest is troubling your garden. Common garden pests include aphids, slugs, caterpillars, and beetles.
- Organic Solutions: Before reaching for chemical pesticides, consider organic solutions like neem oil, insecticidal soaps, or homemade remedies like garlic or chili sprays.
- Encourage Natural Predators: Attracting birds, ladybugs, and other natural predators can help keep pest populations in check.
2. Disease Management:
- Prevention is Key: Keep your garden clean and free of debris where diseases can harbor. Practice crop rotation to prevent soil-borne diseases.
- Identify Diseases Early: Watch for common signs like spots on leaves, stunted growth, or unusual leaf discoloration.
- Organic Treatments: Use organic fungicides and practice good sanitation. Remove and destroy infected plant parts to prevent the spread of disease.
3. Weather Challenges:
- Protecting from Frost: Use row covers or bring container plants indoors during frost warnings.
- Managing Heat Waves: Ensure adequate watering during hot weather, and consider shade cloths to protect plants from scorching sun.
- Wind Protection: Use windbreaks like fences or plant hedges to protect your garden from strong winds.
4. Soil Issues:
- Poor Drainage: Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage or consider raised beds.
- Soil Erosion: Use mulching and ground covers to protect soil from erosion, especially on slopes.
5. Wildlife Intrusions:
- Fencing: A fence can be an effective way to keep larger animals like deer and rabbits out.
- Natural Repellents: Use natural deterrents like scented plants, noise devices, or non-toxic repellents to discourage smaller critters.
6. Common Gardening Mistakes:
- Overwatering or Underwatering: Learn the specific water needs of your plants to avoid these common issues.
- Planting at the Wrong Time: Pay attention to the ideal planting times for each species.
- Overcrowding Plants: Give your plants enough space to grow to their full potential.
Gardening is a process of learning and growing along with your plants. Facing and overcoming these challenges not only strengthens your garden but also enriches your experience and knowledge as a gardener. Remember, every problem has a solution, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve. Let’s keep our spirits high and our hands in the soil!
Harvesting and Beyond
Congratulations, you’ve nurtured your garden through the ups and downs, and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. This section will guide you through the harvest process and what to do after your plants have given their bounty.
Knowing When to Harvest:
- Observe Signs of Ripeness: Each plant has its own indicators. For example, tomatoes should be firm and fully colored, while leafy greens are best when leaves are tender and full-sized.
- Regular Checks: As harvest time approaches, check your garden regularly. Many vegetables and fruits have a short perfect-picking window.
Harvesting Techniques:
- Gentle Handling: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut fruits and vegetables to avoid damaging the plant or the produce.
- Morning Harvest: Whenever possible, harvest in the morning when the plants are hydrated and temperatures are cooler.
Post-Harvest Care:
- Proper Storage: Store your harvest correctly to maximize freshness and shelf life. Some vegetables prefer cool, dark places, while others do best in refrigeration.
- Preservation: If you have more produce than you can use, consider preservation methods like canning, freezing, or drying.
Preparing for the Next Season:
- Soil Rest and Revitalization: After harvest, add compost and other organic matter to replenish your soil.
- Crop Rotation: If you’re planting for the next season, rotate your crops to prevent pest buildup and soil nutrient depletion.
- Cover Crops: Consider planting cover crops in the off-season to improve soil health.
Reflecting and Learning:
- Take Notes: Reflect on what worked well and what didn’t. Keeping a gardening journal can help you plan better for next year.
- Continuous Learning: Every season is an opportunity to learn more. Keep researching and learning about new techniques, plants, and methods.
Enjoying Your Garden’s Gifts:
- Sharing the Bounty: Share your harvest with friends, family, or local food banks. Gardening is not just about growing food; it’s about growing community.
- Savoring the Moment: Take time to enjoy the beauty and abundance of your garden. Whether it’s a simple salad made from your own lettuce or a vase of fresh-cut flowers, appreciate the direct connection between your efforts and these rewards.
As your gardening season wraps up, take a moment to appreciate all the hard work and love you’ve put into your garden. It’s a continuous cycle of learning, growing, and enjoying – a journey that’s as rewarding as the destination. Here’s to many more seasons of joyful gardening!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best vegetables and fruits to grow for beginners?
For beginners, it’s ideal to start with plants that are hardy and require minimal maintenance. Vegetables like lettuce, radishes, tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers are great starters due to their straightforward care and quick growing times.
In terms of fruits, strawberries and raspberries can be rewarding as they are relatively easy to grow and can yield fruit even in their first year. When choosing plants, consider your local climate and the amount of space you have available.
How do I choose the right location for my garden?
The right location for your garden should have adequate sunlight (most vegetables and fruits need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight), proximity to a water source, and protection from extreme elements. Consider the quality of soil and its drainage capacity as well.
If you’re working with limited space like a balcony, look for areas that receive sufficient sunlight. Using containers or vertical gardening can be an effective solution in such spaces.
What type of soil is best for a vegetable garden, and how do I prepare it?
The ideal soil for a vegetable garden is loamy soil, which has a balance of clay, silt, and sand. It should be rich in organic matter and have a pH level that most plants will thrive in (usually around 6.0-7.0).
To prepare your soil, start by clearing debris, then enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility. Testing your soil can provide specific insights into its needs.
When is the best time to start planting?
The best time to start planting depends on your local climate and the frost dates. Generally, you can begin sowing seeds indoors a few weeks before the last expected frost date.
For outdoor planting, wait until the danger of frost has passed and the soil is workable. Some cool-season crops can be planted early in the spring, while warm-season crops should be planted after the soil has warmed up.
How often should I water my garden, and what’s the best way to do it?
Watering frequency depends on the type of plants, weather conditions, and soil type. A general rule of thumb is to water deeply and less frequently, which encourages deep root growth.
Most gardens benefit from about an inch of water per week. Early morning is the best time to water, allowing the soil to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.
What are some effective ways to deal with pests and diseases organically?
Organic pest and disease management focuses on prevention, using natural remedies, and encouraging beneficial insects. Regularly inspect your plants for early signs of trouble and take action with organic solutions like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or homemade sprays.
Encouraging birds and beneficial insects such as ladybugs and bees can also help control pests naturally.
How can I make my garden more sustainable and eco-friendly?
To make your garden more sustainable, start by using organic practices such as composting, avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and using natural pest control methods.
Collecting rainwater for irrigation, choosing native plants, and practicing crop rotation and mulching are also effective. Additionally, consider integrating permaculture principles to create a more self-sustaining ecosystem.
What gardening tools are essential for beginners?
Beginners should start with basic tools like a trowel, gardening gloves, pruning shears, a watering can or hose, and a rake. These tools cover most of the basic gardening tasks such as planting, weeding, pruning, and watering.
How do I know when fruits and vegetables are ready to be harvested?
The readiness for harvest varies among different fruits and vegetables. Generally, vegetables are ready when they’ve reached the desired size and color. For fruits, look for changes in color, ease of separation from the plant, and a sweet, ripe smell. It’s often helpful to taste a small piece to determine ripeness.
Can I grow vegetables in containers, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can grow vegetables in containers. Choose containers that are large enough for the plants you want to grow and have adequate drainage holes. Use high-quality potting soil and make sure your plants receive sufficient sunlight and water. Container gardening may require more frequent watering due to limited soil volume.
How do I plan my garden layout for maximum yield and health of plants?
To maximize yield, consider factors like sunlight, plant spacing, and companion planting. Arrange taller plants so they don’t shade smaller ones. Implement crop rotation to prevent soil depletion and disease build-up. Also, consider using vertical space for climbing plants. Regular soil enrichment and proper watering are also essential for healthy plants.
What are some common mistakes to avoid as a beginner gardener?
Common mistakes include overwatering, planting at the wrong time, neglecting soil health, and choosing plants unsuitable for your climate or space. Avoid overcrowding plants and be vigilant
about pests and diseases. Finally, don’t be discouraged by failures – they’re a natural and valuable part of the learning process.
How do I test and adjust the pH level of my soil?
To test the pH level of your soil, you can use a home testing kit available at most garden centers. If your soil is too acidic (low pH), you can raise the pH by adding lime. If it’s too alkaline (high pH), you can lower it with sulfur or aluminum sulfate. The adjustment process should be done gradually over time, and it’s important to retest your soil after each treatment to avoid over-correction.
What are the differences between heirloom, hybrid, and GMO seeds?
Heirloom seeds are varieties that have been passed down through generations and are often valued for their flavor and historical significance. Hybrid seeds are created by cross-pollinating two different, but related, plants to produce desirable traits.
GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) seeds are genetically altered in a lab for various reasons, such as improving pest resistance. Although, GMOs exist the average home gardener doesn’t have access to GMO seeds to grow in their garden.
Each type has its own advantages and considerations, depending on your gardening goals and preferences.
How can I attract beneficial insects to my garden?
Attracting beneficial insects, like bees and ladybugs, involves planting a variety of plants that provide nectar and pollen. Consider incorporating flowering plants with different blooming times to provide a consistent food source. Avoiding pesticides, creating habitats like insect hotels, and having a water source are also effective ways to attract and support these helpful insects.
What is crop rotation and why is it important?
Crop rotation involves changing the type of crop grown in a particular area of the garden each season. This practice helps in preventing soil nutrient depletion, reducing soil erosion, and managing pests and diseases.
Rotating crops, especially in vegetable gardens, ensures that the same plant family isn’t grown in the same spot year after year, thereby maintaining healthy, balanced soil.
How can I grow herbs indoors?
To grow herbs indoors, provide them with a sunny windowsill or use grow lights if natural light is insufficient. Use well-draining potting soil and containers with drainage holes.
Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater. Common indoor herbs like basil, chives, and mint require minimal space and can thrive in indoor conditions.
What are some effective natural fertilizers I can use?
Effective natural fertilizers include compost, manure, bone meal, and fish emulsion. Compost provides a wide range of nutrients and improves soil texture. Manure, which should be well-composted, is a good source of nitrogen.
Bone meal is high in phosphorus, which is good for root development, and fish emulsion is a well-balanced fertilizer suitable for many plants.
How do I protect my garden from harsh weather conditions like frost or extreme heat?
To protect your garden from frost, use frost cloths or blankets to cover your plants during cold nights. For extreme heat, ensure adequate watering and consider using shade cloths to protect plants from intense sun. Mulching can also help in regulating soil temperature and retaining moisture.
What is companion planting and how do I implement it?
Companion planting involves placing plants together that can benefit each other. This can be through pest control (certain plants repel pests affecting others), pollination enhancement, and efficient use of space.
To implement companion planting, research which plants are beneficial to each other and plan your garden layout accordingly. For example, planting marigolds near tomatoes can help deter nematodes.
How do I manage weeds effectively and safely?
Effective weed management includes regular hand weeding, mulching, and using ground covers that suppress weed growth. Organic herbicides can be used but should be applied carefully to avoid harming your plants. Maintaining a healthy, dense garden can also naturally reduce the space available for weeds to grow.
Can I reuse potting soil, and if so, how do I refresh it?
Yes, you can reuse potting soil, but it should be refreshed first. Remove any old plant roots and debris. Replenish the soil by mixing in new potting soil, compost, or other organic matter to restore nutrients. It’s also a good idea to add a slow-release fertilizer to ensure the soil is nutrient-rich for the new plants.
What are the signs of overwatering and underwatering, and how can I correct them?
Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, soft and mushy stem base, and mold or algae on the soil surface. Underwatering signs are dry, brittle leaves, and wilting.
To correct overwatering, allow the soil to dry out before watering again. For underwatering, gradually increase watering frequency and amount, ensuring the water penetrates deeply into the soil.
How do I create and maintain a compost pile for my garden?
To create a compost pile, alternate layers of green material (kitchen scraps, grass clippings) with brown material (dry leaves, straw, or newspaper). Keep the pile moist but not wet and turn it regularly to aerate and
speed up the decomposition process. The compost is ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and has an earthy smell. Maintain your compost pile by continuously adding and balancing green and brown materials, and ensure it’s properly aerated.
