Interested in gardening? We have the perfect beginner tips and tricks just for you. Find the best places in your yard to start your garden, the right items to plant, and the best way to care for them!
HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT LOCATION:
- Pick a sunny location
- Choose an area that drains well and doesn't get too wet
- Find a stable area that is shielded from the wind
- Aim for an area with nutrient-rich soil
CHOOSING THE RIGHT POT OR PLOT SIZE:
Start small - grow what you can eat! Use these size guidelines to help:
- A garden bed the size of 4’ x 4’ is a great beginner size for a small backyard
- A garden bed the size of 10’ x 10’ can hold 3-5 vegetables and is great for a normal-sized yard
- A garden bed the size of 12’ x 24’ is the perfect in-the-ground garden bed for a normal to large-sized backyard
CHOOSING VEGETABLES:
To start, choose easy vegetables that produce lots of crops (like tomatoes, zucchini, and carrots). Not a fan or want more options? Find 10 great vegetables to grow in The Farmers Almanac.
WHERE & WHEN TO PLANT:
Though prime location for planting may vary, plant tall veggies (like tomatoes and green beans) in the north side of the garden. Before planting, be sure to check your seed packet for the plant's life span to determine future needs and maintenance.
- Your seed might be a Perennial (plant grows every spring) OR an Annual (lives for only one growing season)
- If your plant is an Annual you will have to clear out your garden bed and replant it the following growing season
See the Almanac’s Best Planting Dates to learn best practices for your particular crop.
Once you've planted your crops in the ground, the next step is to wait for harvest! In the meantime, find easy, seasonal recipes you can make this Fall.
Check out our Pinterest for more recipes, gardening tips, and healthy food hacks!