As spring approaches, and the ground begins to thaw, it’s time for home gardeners to start planning their crop for the next year. For beginners, contemplating a garden can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
While some plants are trickier to maintain, Barbi Gardiner, a gardener and the founder of The Outdoor Apothecary, recommends starting with plants that won’t die if they’re slightly neglected.
“For beginners, I always recommend starting with forgiving plants that don’t mind a bit of neglect — think sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds or even culinary herbs like basil and mint,” Gardiner says. “These are not only easy to grow but will also add a splash of color and aroma to your garden.”
For those looking to grow vegetables, there are a variety recommended for beginners or those looking for an easier crop. The Farmers’ Almanac labels lettuce, cherry tomatoes, radishes, green beans and cucumbers as among the easiest to grow.
One of the best ways to avoid becoming overwhelmed is by starting small, according to Gardiner. Rather than trying to plant an entire garden, get the hang of it by just using a small garden bed or a few pots.
“A couple of pots or a small garden bed is a great beginning,” Gardiner explains. “It’s not about the size; it’s the connection you forge with the soil and your plants that matter.”
Not only is picking the right plants for a home garden important, but choosing the right spot to place the garden is just as crucial. Each plant needs a certain amount of sunlight each day, so finding a sunny spot in the yard is vital to the success of a garden.
“Notice where the sun dances throughout the day, as this will guide you in deciding where to plant,” Gardiner says. “Most vegetables and flowers bask in the sun, craving at least six hours of direct sunlight a day.”
Once gardeners have decided what types of plants they want to grow and where they want to place their garden, they need to prepare the area and most importantly, pick out suitable soil.
“Preparing your garden area is akin to setting a strong foundation for a house,” Gardiner stresses. “Begin with good soil; it’s the bedrock of your garden’s health. Opt for a mix rich in compost to provide your plants with the nutrients they need. If you’re working with containers, a high-quality potting mix is your best bet.”
Beyond the plants themselves, a common problem many gardeners run into is pest management. From small bugs that can damage the plants, to larger animals like rabbits and deer that eat the garden’s growing food, there are plenty of ways for pests to interfere, but Gardiner says pest control isn’t as challenging as it may seem.
“Pest control can seem daunting, but it’s all about balance,” she says. “Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that feast on common pests such as aphids and mites. Physical barriers like netting can deter larger herbivores.”
Gardiner also says the most important aspect of pest control is maintaining a healthy garden.
“Remember, a healthy plant is less likely to succumb to pests, so focus on building your garden’s resilience through diversity and good health practices,” she says.
Whether beginner gardeners encounter pests or plants that refuse to grow, Gardiner stresses gardeners should focus on the reason behind their gardening, why they wanted to start growing a garden in the first place.
“Let this purpose be your anchor,” she says. “Celebrate the small victories — the first sprout, the first flower, the first harvest. Gardening is a journey, not a race.”
