Starting a Spring Garden: Tips for Beginners

No matter what the calendar says, spring has sprung in many places and soon will be in every corner of the country. Everyone in the neighborhood is outdoors pruning, raking, and working to achieve the perfect spring-ready yard. This year, why not surprise your family and impress your neighbors with a pretty spring garden?

If you're a newbie to growing a garden, use these tips and tricks to help get you started.

Decide what to plant

Do you want to grow vegetables, flowers, or both? Experienced gardeners say beginners should start small. A large fancy garden full of several types of vegetables and flowers is too challenging. A small vegetable garden is a good choice for a first-time garden. Choose your family's favorites, and plant three to five varieties. Some of the easiest vegetables to grow are radishes, carrots, lettuce, green beans, and zucchini.

Satisfy your hankering to grow flowers by planting a few marigolds in between the veggies. They're easy to grow and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Only buy good quality seeds

Avoid buying seeds from your local dollar and discount stores. They're inexpensive, but you'll have better luck if you pay a little more and get good-quality seeds. Decent seeds don't cost a fortune, and the difference in results will be worth it. Some big box stores may carry organic and heirloom seeds. However, ordering from a seed catalog for various good seeds is helpful.

Use an online gardening tool

The Farmer's Almanac has been helping people plan and plant gardens since 1792! But in the era of technology, there's a better way. An online gardening tool lets you plot out and plan a garden on your computer screen. These tools offer a garden layout guide, easy-to-follow charts for what to plant and when, how long it takes from seed to harvest, and much more.

Start your seeds indoors

You can get a head start on your spring garden using potting soil, small cups, or a store-bought starter kit. Plant your seeds indoors, and keep them safe until the cold weather departs. You'll save time and avoid wasting money on plants that could be killed by a late frost.

If you live in a more temperate zone (consult your growing guide), you can also get a head start by planting seedlings from your local garden center. Plant them outdoors after the threat of frost is over.

Take steps to enrich the soil

After the last projected frost is over, prepare your garden beds. Soil gets compacted in winter, so the first step is to till or turn the soil to loosen it. You'll need a sharp spade or tiller for this task. The soil should be worked to about 12—14 inches deep. Enrich the soil by adding compost and amendments.

Purchase an inexpensive soil-testing kit to determine the pH and nutrients of your soil. You can also get a sample of soil tested by your local Extension Service.

Maintain your garden

Care for your garden throughout the growing season. Pull weeds, add a layer of mulch, fertilize, and water during dry spells. Look for organic ways to keep bugs and other pests out of your garden. To enjoy your garden year after year and keep your garden safe from wild animals and other dangers, consider surrounding it with fencing.

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