Question 1

What's the absolute first thing I should do to start gardening?

Accepted Answer

Observe your space for 2-3 days to track sunlight patterns. Note when sun hits different spots and for how long. This single step prevents the most common beginner mistake—planting in the wrong location.

Question 2

How many plants should I start with as a complete beginner?

Accepted Answer

Start with exactly 3 plants: one herb (mint or coriander), one leafy green (spinach or methi), and one flowering plant (marigold). This gives you quick wins without overwhelming you while you learn the basics.

Question 3

What if I kill my first plant—does that mean I'm bad at gardening?

Accepted Answer

No. Most gardeners kill their first 5-10 plants while learning. Each dead plant teaches you something—usually about watering, light, or soil. The difference between beginners and experienced gardeners is just that experienced ones have killed more plants.

Question 4

Should I start from seeds or buy small plants from a nursery?

Accepted Answer

Buy seedlings (small plants) from a nursery for your first attempt. Seeds require more precision and patience. Once you succeed with 2-3 nursery plants, then try growing from seeds.

Question 5

How much money do I need to spend to start gardening?

Accepted Answer

₹500-800 covers everything: 3 pots (₹150), basic potting mix (₹200), 3 seedlings (₹60-120), one small bag of compost (₹100), and a watering can (₹150). You can start for less using recycled containers.

Question 6

What's the difference between potting mix and regular soil?

Accepted Answer

Regular garden soil compacts in pots and may contain construction debris in urban areas. Potting mix is specifically designed for containers—it's lighter, drains better, and contains the right balance of materials for container growing.

Getting Started with Gardening: Your First 30 Days as a Home Gardener

Getting Started with Gardening: Your First 30 Days as a Home Gardener