u/Horror_Self_1999

I started learning how to use watercolor this year, but man am i struggling
I feel confident enough using lighter colors but the second i have to touch browns, blacks, etc i am unable to get a satisfying result and im feeling discouraged from this medium
Ive tried wetting the paper first and then laying down color but it comes out muddy and and varied, instead of a neat flat wash
What should i change in my approach to these sections?
Any tips appreciated :(, i hate feeling like ive ruined a piece when it comes to using these darker colors