Frequently Asked Questions
The questions readers ask us most often. If your question isn’t here, email gardenerthehappy@gmail.com — we read every message.
About this site
Are your guides really free?
Yes. Every article and guide on The Happy Gardening is free to read. We may run small ads or include affiliate links to keep the lights on, but the content is always open.
Who writes the articles?
A small team of home gardeners. Every article is reviewed by at least one other person on the team and tested at home where possible. We are not certified horticulturists; if your situation is high-stakes (commercial growing, rare plants, plant disease quarantine), please consult a local extension service.
Can I republish your articles on my blog?
No, please don’t republish full articles. You may quote up to a few sentences with a clear link back. For partnerships or syndication, email us.
Do you accept guest posts?
Occasionally, when the topic and quality match our voice. Pitch first — do not send a finished article. Email gardenerthehappy@gmail.com with a topic outline.
Gardening basics
How often should I water indoor plants?
Skip a fixed schedule. Push your finger 1–2 inches into the soil — if it’s dry, water deeply until it drains; if it’s damp, wait. Most popular houseplants need water once a week in summer and every 10–14 days in winter. See our indoor watering guide.
What’s the easiest vegetable to grow?
Lettuce. Direct sow seeds, water lightly, and you’ll be cutting leaves within 4–5 weeks. Radishes are a close second — ready in 30 days.
Why are my plant’s leaves turning yellow?
The most common cause is overwatering. Other causes: too little light, nutrient deficiency, pests, or simply old leaves dropping. Walk through our yellow leaves guide for diagnosis.
Do I really need to mulch?
Almost always yes. A 2-inch layer of straw, leaves, or bark cuts watering in half, smothers most weeds, and slowly feeds the soil. It’s the single highest-leverage chore in a home garden.
I have no yard. Can I still garden?
Absolutely. A sunny windowsill, balcony, or patio can grow herbs, lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, and many flowers. Start with our container vegetable guide.
How do I know when something is ready to harvest?
Each crop has its own signals — tomatoes give slightly when squeezed, lettuce leaves are ready at 4 inches, beans should be pencil-thick. See our harvest guide.
Working with us
How can I support The Happy Gardening?
The kindest things you can do: share an article that helped you, leave a thoughtful comment, follow us on social media, and email when something works (or doesn’t!) so we can improve.
Do you do partnerships or sponsored posts?
We’re selective. We only partner with brands whose products we’d genuinely use. All sponsored content is clearly disclosed.