Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, there are plenty of gardening secrets and tips out there that will make your time in the dirt more efficient and enjoyable.

Aside from helping you grow the fruits and vegetables you love, gardening is also a healthy activity for you and your family. It burns calories, reduces your risk of stroke and heart disease, and lowers your likelihood of osteoperosis.

Plan your garden near a water source.

Whether you have a tiny container garden, a large pond, or a natural swimming pool, water features add a beautiful and relaxing element to your garden. They also help attract wildlife to your yard and reduce pollution from storm water runoff.

Rainwater is highly oxygenated and free of salts, fluoride, and inorganic ions that can damage plant roots and soil. This makes it a better and more sustainable option for watering gardens, lawns, flower pots, and even washing cars and windows.

Don’t overwater.

Watering your garden too much can lead to problems such as root rot and stunted growth. You can avoid overwatering by learning the specific water requirements of each plant and being able to follow them.

You may also want to consider getting a soil moisture meter, which is a small device that will tell you how much water is in the soil. Check the moisture levels of your soil frequently to ensure that you’re not overwatering your plants.

Don’t overseed.

Overseeding is the act of putting new grass seed over an existing lawn. It is a great way to turn a thin and worn out lawn into a lush, green one that resists drought, weeds, pests and disease.

Knowing when to overseed depends on the type of grass that you have and your climate. In most areas, the ideal time to overseed is in late summer or early fall, when soil temperatures are ideal for germination.

Water your new grass seeds regularly while they are germinating. But be careful not to overwater or you could encourage disease problems, such as root rot.

Don’t overspray.

Overspray, also called spray drift, is the result of improperly applied pesticides, liquid or dust. This occurs when sprayers fail to cover a target area properly, or if they apply a spray on windy days.

Overspray can kill or damage plants, structures, vehicles and people. It can also spread pollutants and disease, threatening the health of our environment.

Don’t overweed.

While weeding is a necessary part of gardening, you don’t have to resort to harsh chemicals. There are plenty of natural ways to kill weeds without harming the environment or your family.

One of the most common mistakes gardeners make is letting weeds grow too large. By pulling out weeds when they’re young, you can reduce the number of seeds they have to spread in the soil.

Don’t oversaturate.

It’s no secret that plants need water to survive. But too much can cause serious problems.

Overwatering wreaks havoc on your garden by starving the soil of its oxygen, which is vital for healthy plant growth and aeration. It also washes away valuable nutrients. The best way to avoid this is by watering only when necessary for your specific crop. You’ll be rewarded with healthier plants, higher yields and a more enjoyable gardening experience. And if you’re really looking to save money, consider investing in a drip irrigation system. The right one can make your garden and your wallet happy. Keeping these gardening secrets in mind will keep you and your garden healthy all season long!