20 top gardening hacks of all time

Many kitchen scraps can be regrown into new plants, reducing waste and saving money. For example, you can regrow green onions by placing the white root ends in a glass of water. Similarly, lettuce, celery, and bok choy can be regrown by placing their bases in water and transferring them to soil once they sprout new roots.

Companion planting involves growing certain plants together to enhance growth and deter pests. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes can repel nematodes, while basil can improve the flavor of tomatoes and deter flies. Research which plants work well together to create a harmonious and productive garden.

Mulching is a simple yet effective way to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Organic mulches like straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves decompose over time, adding nutrients to the soil. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants, being careful not to cover the stems, to keep the soil cool and moist.

Composting is an excellent way to recycle kitchen and garden waste into nutrient-rich soil. You can create a simple compost bin using a large plastic container or wooden pallets. Add a mix of green materials (like fruit scraps and grass clippings) and brown materials (like dried leaves and cardboard) to your bin, turning it regularly to speed up decomposition.

Baking soda can help reduce soil acidity, which can lead to sweeter tomatoes. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda around the base of your tomato plants and gently work it into the soil. This hack is particularly useful for gardeners dealing with acidic soil conditions.

Collecting rainwater is an eco-friendly way to water your garden. Rainwater is free of the chemicals found in tap water and is naturally soft, making it ideal for plants. Set up a rain barrel under a downspout to collect and store rainwater, and use it to water your garden during dry spells.

A drip irrigation system delivers water directly to the plant roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff. You can create a simple system using a garden hose with small holes punched along its length. Lay the hose along your garden rows and connect it to a water source, ensuring that water drips slowly and evenly to the plants.

Pollinators like bees and butterflies are essential for a healthy garden. Planting native flowers that bloom at different times of the year can attract these beneficial insects. Choose a variety of colors and shapes to provide food and habitat for pollinators, ensuring a thriving garden ecosystem.

Banana peels are rich in potassium, phosphorus, and calcium, which are beneficial for plant growth. Chop up banana peels and bury them in the soil near your plants, or soak them in water to create a nutrient-rich tea. This hack is especially useful for flowering plants and fruit trees.

Neem oil is a natural pesticide that can control a wide range of garden pests without harming beneficial insects. Mix a few teaspoons of neem oil with water and a few drops of dish soap, and spray it on affected plants. This solution can help manage aphids, spider mites, and other common pests.