The Lessons I’ve Learned from the Silly Mistakes I’ve Made as a Novice Gardener

It’s all just one big experiment

Carly Newberg
Human Parts

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My first bundle of Brussels sprouts. Photo by author.

It’s that time of year again. The weeds are sprouting in too many numbers to keep up with. The wasps are buzzing joyfully around large plates of food. And allergy season is in full swing, which means I have itchy eyes around the clock no matter what I do.

But the best part about it all? It’s time to plant my garden.

This is only my third year having a garden, and I still consider myself a novice. I started out having absolutely no idea how to grow or maintain anything apart from house plants. And even those, I’m still figuring out. Now, I have somewhat of an idea.

Although uncertain of how much I would enjoy the hobby in the beginning, gardening has quickly become a therapeutic outlet that keeps me going and gives me perspective… especially on tough days when I battle anxiety and depression. When my hands are in the soil, or I’m tending to a specific plant and its needs, I forget about my mental turmoil and am present in the moment. Gardening keeps me grounded.

There are certainly frustrating moments, especially as a recovering perfectionist. But when I feel myself getting overwhelmed, I take a deep breath and…

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Carly Newberg
Human Parts

Yoga teacher / freelance writer / mental health advocate writing boldly & bravely about relatable life experiences. I’m done staying silent.