A garden is one of the most important aspects of a self-reliant lifestyle. They provide a means of growing your own food and gardening itself is a very rewarding activity. However, some people aren't blessed with a green thumb and can find themselves struggling to keep their plants alive.

Here is a quick troubleshooting guide to common gardening mistakes.

Problem No. 1 – Plant Varieties Aren't Zone Compatible

Symptoms: Perennials and biennials are not returning the following year. Annuals are not thriving despite good garden conditions.

Remedies: Make sure to carefully inspect seed packets to see if they will grow in your zone. If you grow plants outside of your zone you will need to bring them in the house, in a greenhouse or otherwise protect them in winter. Try to not grow plants that need cooler temps than your zone as it is extremely difficult to keep a plant cool vs warm.

Problem No. 2 – Plants Are Getting Too Much Water

Symptoms: Plants stop growing. Leaves and branches are wilted or limp. Leaves may be yellowed or browned. Soil is developing mold.

Remedies: Read the plant's care instructions carefully to see how much watering it needs. If in doubt, water only a little, but often. Keep in mind how much rain you've been getting so you don't overwater. If you don't water often but are still experiencing symptoms of overwatering, you may need to mix more sand into your soil to improve drainage.

Problem No. 3 – Plants Are Not Getting Enough Water

Symptoms: Leaves seem curled, burnt, crispy and/or brittle. Leaves are yellow or brown in color. Soil in garden bed looks cracked

Remedies: Water more! Set up a small irrigation system to water for you at regular intervals. Add shade cloth to garden beds to help reduce water evaporation. Mix more clay or soil into your garden bed to improve its ability to hold water. Adding mulch may also help plants conserve water.