Gathering

[Verethyl]

I've been wondering when gathering is it best to be a couple of levels higher than what is required so you don't miss so much. For instance my BTN is 23, and Walnut log is 24, but the percentage is only like 84% without using the 250 inc.

[Frizze]

Being a level or two higher(and having the gear with the best stats) is nice, but its not really required while leveling up gathering. Unless you're under a tight time limit(or working on a timed node), you can always take the time to hit another couple nodes to get the extra mats from those couple swings you missed for being low level/geared. If youre working on a time leve, dont be afraid to spend your GP for a boost where you need it - and cordials are really nice if you can afford them too.

[Alien_Gamer]

I wouldn't worry too much about your level vs the item level of the mat, keep your gear relatively up to date an you'll never have too much of an issue getting your mats. HQ gear can help maximize your success rate but it will never go above 95% when your gathering at your level, that is a hard coded limit. You can also level quickly enough that you will quickly outgrow any specific mat and reach 100% success rate.

[Roth_Trailfinder]

TC, be mindful of your abilities. 250 GP for an increase of 50% chance to gather is not the extent of what you can do at your level. I’d suggest using the 100 GP, 15% chance move (bringing you to 99% chance to gather) as a more economical, and more easily repeatable, method of improving your chances.

Sometimes, spending a boatload of GP is necessary. Other times, its better to be more miserly with it and only use what is necessary.

[Shadygrove]

And remember that being under an item's level gets you more EXPs.