Here is a 701 word article about starting a garden:

Starting a Garden

Gardening is a rewarding and enjoyable hobby that allows you to grow your own fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers. With some planning and preparation, anyone can create a thriving garden, even beginners. Here are some tips and facts to consider when starting your first garden:

Location - One of the most important factors is choosing the right location. Your garden should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Make sure the spot has good drainage and access to a water source for irrigation. Consider proximity to your house for convenience.

Soil Quality - Good soil is vital for plant growth. Do a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels. Most plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. Add compost or fertilizer to enrich the soil if needed. Till the soil to improve aeration and drainage.

Timing - Pay attention to the frost dates and planting schedules for your region. Sow seeds or transplant seedlings outdoors after the last spring frost date. This avoids cold damage. Check seed packets for planting times. Many vegetables can be planted in succession for multiple harvests.

Plant Selection - Choose plants suited to your climate and season. Favor heat-tolerant varieties if you live in a hot area. Go for quick-growing crops like lettuce and radishes as a beginner. Mix flowers and herbs in too for diversity. Rotate plant families each season to prevent disease.

Garden Design - Sketch out a simple garden map first. Place tall crops like corn on the north side to avoid shading smaller plants. Group plants with similar water and sunlight needs together. Include walkways at least 3 feet wide for accessibility.

Irrigation - Watering properly is crucial, especially at seedling stage. Set up a drip irrigation system or use soaker hoses to target plant roots. Water early morning to reduce evaporation. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.

Pest Management - Weeds, insects, and diseases can damage plants. Maintain your garden by handpicking pests, setting traps, using row covers, or spraying organic pesticides if needed. But don't eliminate all pests, as some benefit your garden.

Fertilizing - Use an organic fertilizer or compost to feed plants 1-2 times per season. Avoid over-fertilizing which can burn roots. Side dress growing plants with a small amount of fertilizer or compost.

Pollination - Crops like squash need pollination to set fruit. Attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators by planting native flowers. Hand pollinate using a brush if needed.

Tools - Invest in quality tools that make gardening easier like a trowel, pruners, garden hose, and spade. Use ergonomic tools that fit your hand comfortably and reduce strain.

Maintenance - Expect to spend 15-30 minutes per day weeding, pruning, and harvesting. Check for pests daily and remove diseased plants to prevent spreading. Cut back spent plants after harvesting.

Enjoyment - Have fun and relax in your garden! Experiment with new varieties. Share the bounty with family and friends. Gardening is a hobby that can provide a lifetime of satisfaction.

With proper planning and care, even novice gardeners can successfully grow a productive garden. Follow these tips and facts to get your garden off to the right start. Gardening is a great way to save money on produce, get exercise, reduce stress, and enjoy nature's beauty. Planting that first seed and watching your garden come to life is an incredibly rewarding experience.