If your green thumb can use some help, check out these 5 home gardening tips. Better Homes & Garden has a 25 tips that will help you become a master gardener, but we only included the most helpful tips for beginners.

When you’re just starting out with gardening, it can seem like there’s so much to know, and you’ve got a thousand questions. Anything takes practice to master and gardening is no different. Follow these useful gardening tips to help you get your garden started.

1. Know your sun spots

For edible gardens, plants will need at least 6 hours of full sunlight. Pay attention to the area that gets the most sun.

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2. Try using natural potting soil

Using home-made compost will give your plants more nutrients than bagged soil. The best soil structure is crumbly, easy to dig, readily accepts water, and loose enough to provide oxygen for plant roots.

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3. Use mulch to prevent weeds

Putting mulch on top of your soil keeps the moisture in and prevents weeds.

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4. Three Second Watering Rule

You want to make sure you water enough, but not too much. Water your garden bed until you can count to three seconds with the water still pooled on top.

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5. Be Patient

Go easy on yourself when starting a new garden. Learn through the mistakes of killing, overwatering, or diseased plants. Don’t forget to take a step back and enjoy your hard work!