Whether you plant flowers, greenery, or vegetables, gardening is a rewarding hobby. Unfortunately, many individuals struggle to grow and keep house and garden plants alive. If you fall into this category, follow these three helpful tips to become an expert gardener and cultivate a green thumb.

How to Strengthen Your Gardening Skills

1. Start Small

Setting yourself up for success in terms of garden plants requires taking baby steps. Don't jump right in and buy a large variety of species. Instead, begin your gardening journey with one or two small house or patio plants—preferably an easy-to-grow species, like succulents or spider plants.

It's also important to start with healthy greenery. Garden centers at large chain retailers typically don't employ individuals with prior gardening experience. For that reason, it's best to choose a local supplier, as employees can suggest easy-maintenance house plants. Additionally, purchase quality supplies, like topsoil and fertilizer, to encourage growth and survival.

2. Opt for In-Season Plants

With indoor species, you can control the interior climate and make it comfortable for growing year-round. Unfortunately, this doesn't apply to outdoor gardens, so you need to select in-season plants for them to thrive. Most flowers bloom in the spring and summer, while several varieties such as pansies and chrysanthemums thrive in the fall. It's also vital to choose the correct location for each plant, as every species has its own light, moisture, humidity, and temperature requirements.

3. Seek Professional Advice

Keeping a house or garden plant alive isn't complicated once you know its needs. Fortunately, a professional florist or gardener is well-versed in the unique qualities and characteristics of common species. If you run into issues or simply want more information, visit your local greenhouse for tips, tricks, and advice.

Are you ready to begin your journey to becoming an expert gardener? Stop by Laurel Grove Florist & Green Houses LLC in Port Jervis, NY, to find the right species for your needs. Since 1912, this florist shop and greenhouse has provided residents across Orange County with eye-catching floral arrangements and a wide selection of garden plants. Browse their offerings online and call (845) 856-2713 to ask about any specific flowers or house plants.