Gardening wisdom is often passed down through generations, and while some old-timey tips may seem outdated or even superstitious, many still hold true today! 

Here are 13 gardening tricks I have tried, and been pleasantly surprised by the results!

Plant by the Moon

Farmers and gardeners have sworn by the lunar calendar for centuries. The idea is to plant leafy crops during a waxing moon and root crops during a waning moon. While science hasn’t fully confirmed the effects, many gardeners swear they see improved growth!

Bury Fish Scraps for Fertilizer

Native Americans used fish to fertilize corn, and the concept still works today! Bury fish scraps deep in the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.

Companion Planting for Natural Pest Control 

For a long time, gardeners have known that certain plants grow better together. For example, planting basil near tomatoes can improve flavor and deter pests, while marigolds keep nematodes away from your veggies. Companion planting is a tried-and-true method for garden health and a robust harvest.

Want to take the guesswork out of companion planting? Our Companion Planting Guide has you covered! Featuring 29 garden favorites, plus three bonus theme garden layouts and blank templates to design your own, it’s the perfect resource to create a thriving, pest-resistant garden.

Use Wood Ash for Soil Enrichment

Sprinkling wood ash (from untreated wood) in the garden can add potassium and help balance acidic soil. Don’t overdo it – too much can raise the pH level too high!

Make Manure Tea for a Nutrient Boost

Make a “manure tea” by soaking aged manure in water and then using the nutrient-rich liquid to fertilize plants. It’s an excellent natural alternative to chemical fertilizers.

Newspaper & Cardboard as Weed Barriers

Before landscape fabric, gardeners used newspaper and cardboard as mulch to suppress weeds. This biodegradable trick retains moisture, reduces weeds, and improves soil health.

Use Coffee Grounds for Acid-Loving Plants

Got azaleas, blueberries, or roses? Coffee grounds can help boost soil acidity and provide a slow-release nitrogen source.

Use Epsom Salt for Greener Plants

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) has been used for generations to promote lush green growth in plants. A tablespoon mixed in a gallon of water can help tomatoes, peppers, and roses thrive.

Save & Swap Seeds

Before seed catalogs were common, gardeners saved seeds from their best plants each year. This saves money, helps preserve heirloom varieties, and creates plants that are adapted to specific environments

Use Vinegar to Kill Weeds

A natural alternative to herbicides, vinegar can be sprayed directly on weeds to kill them. Just be careful – it’s non-selective and will damage any plant it touches.

Mulch with Grass Clippings

Instead of throwing away grass clippings, use them as mulch. They help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and add nitrogen as they decompose.

Use Eggshells for Pest Control & Soil Health

Crushed eggshells can deter slugs and snails from devouring your plants. Plus, they’re an excellent source of calcium for the soil, which helps prevent issues like blossom-end rot in tomatoes.

Use Banana Peels for a Potassium Boost

Banana peels are rich in potassium and phosphorus. Bury them near your plants or blend them into compost tea to give your garden a natural nutrient boost.

Boost Garden Production and Keep Traditions Alive

Following these old-school gardening tips can cultivate a healthier, more productive garden while keeping traditions alive.