Deciding What to Grow
Start with Your Space
The size and type of your garden play a huge role in what you can grow.- Small Spaces
- Containers & Pots: Perfect for balconies, patios, or tiny backyards. You can grow herbs, small vegetables (like cherry tomatoes or peppers), or even compact flowers.
- Vertical Gardening: Trellises or hanging planters can maximize space and work wonders for vining plants like peas or decorative ivies.
- Medium Spaces
- Raised garden beds are a great option. They let you control the soil quality and are ideal for a mix of vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
- Large Gardens
- You have the freedom to plant everything from sprawling vegetable patches to rows of blooming perennials. Consider dividing your space into sections for flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees.
Consider the Climate
Your local weather patterns dictate what will thrive in your garden.- Cold Climates: Opt for hardy plants like kale, carrots, or pansies. These are resilient to frost and colder nights.
- Warm Climates: Basil, tomatoes, and marigolds love the heat and sunshine. Look for plants that can handle extended periods of warmth.
- Unpredictable Weather: Focus on adaptable plants like herbs (mint, parsley) or flowers like zinnias, which thrive in various conditions.
Match Plants to Your Experience
Starting out? Keep it simple!- Beginner Gardeners
- Herbs like basil, mint, or chives are easy and forgiving.
- Flowers like sunflowers or marigolds add color with minimal effort.
- Vegetables like lettuce or radishes grow quickly, giving you a sense of accomplishment.
- Intermediate Gardeners
- Try crops like peppers, beans, or squash, which need a bit more attention.
- Perennials like lavender or roses require planning and maintenance but are rewarding.
- Advanced Gardeners
- Experiment with exotic plants, fruit trees, or challenging vegetables like artichokes.
Flowers, Vegetables, or Herbs? Why Not All Three?
Choosing between flowers, vegetables, and herbs isn’t a zero-sum game—you can mix and match to suit your needs.- Flowers
- Add beauty, attract pollinators, and create a sense of joy. Start with sunflowers, petunias, or daisies.
- Vegetables
- Great for fresh, homegrown meals. Tomatoes, cucumbers, and zucchini are crowd-pleasers.
- Herbs
- Perfect for small spaces or kitchen gardens. Basil, thyme, and parsley are must-haves for beginner and seasoned gardeners alike.
Tips for Choosing the Right Plants
- What Do You Love to Eat or See?
- If you love cooking, a herb and vegetable garden might be your best bet.
- If aesthetics are your priority, lean toward vibrant flowers.
- How Much Time Can You Dedicate?
- Low-maintenance options like succulents, potatoes, or lavender are perfect for busy schedules.
- Think About Long-Term Goals
- Want something seasonal, like tulips? Or a perennial that keeps giving, like rosemary? Consider how much effort you’re willing to put in year after year.
