I’m a gardening expert – save time and money by avoiding nine common mistakes in growing plants and vegetables

A GARDENING expert has revealed the nine mistakes to avoid in order to save time and money when growing plants and vegetables.

While the concept of growing food and plants from scratch can seem daunting, these tips will help even the more novice gardeners get started.

According to Architectural Digest, one of the main mistakes people make when starting a garden is setting too lofty of a goal.

It’s best to start small, while thinking big, advises expert Megan Gilger, who recommends thinking about goals that are three to five years from now.

Another common mistake people make when gardening is not interplanting – as in not letting all their different kinds of buds grow together.

Gilger says it’s good to intercrop – a gardening practice that encourages pairing companion plants and mixing tall and short plants.

Aside from helping with weeds and bringing in pollinators, the practice can reduce pests and disease, according to Giger.

However, plants need room to grow and it’s important to not overcrowd the garden and be mindful of spacing, which is another common mistake.

Gilger also recommends staying away from planting too many different seeds, and focus on growing the vegetables and herbs you enjoy to eat.

And once you have grown your favorite veggies, make sure to not miss the fruits of your labor, as it’s crucial to pick harvest items on the vine once they are ready.

Misunderstanding plant growth is another mistake to avoid when gardening, and it’s recommended to know a plant’s height at maturity.

This is because as a plant grows, it can cast shade on other plants and affect the overall garden environment.

Another major mistake to keep in mind is improper watering.

Deep, thorough watering once a week is recommended over splashing on a little every day, and the soil should be wet several inches down after you’re done.

It’s also a mistake to plant seeds only once per season. Instead, you should maximize your garden’s production power, and plant more seeds once the first crops have been harvested.

Finally, make sure to take notes about your garden’s progress, as not doing so is another common mistake.

This way you can keep track of what worked and what didn’t.