Plan Your Garden
Plan Your Summer Garden from the Comfort of Your Couch
As you daydream of warm, sunny days while looking out frosted windows, winter is the perfect time to start planning your summer garden. Best of all, there’s no need to hunch over a computer or brave the cold—this planning can be done comfortably from your cozy couch.
Taking time now to think ahead will set you up for a smoother, more successful growing season once spring arrives.
7 Key Considerations for Planning Your Summer Garden
1. Budget
Start with a realistic budget to determine what’s achievable. It’s easy to get carried away with ambitious ideas, so pricing out your essentials in advance can help keep expectations in check. Be sure to account for seeds, plants, soil amendments, tools, irrigation, and any new materials you may need.
2. Garden Design
Designing your garden layout is an enjoyable winter activity that allows you to visualize the finished space. A simple hand-drawn planting plan can help ensure you have enough room for each plant and prevent overcrowding. This step also helps narrow down your wish list—you may discover you can’t grow everything, and that’s okay!
3. Location
Choosing the right location is especially important for first-time gardeners. Look for an area that receives 6–8 hours of sunlight per day, has good drainage, and is protected from strong winds.
4. Plant Selection
This is the fun part! Think about what you’d love to grow, but also select plants suited to your climate, soil type, and light conditions. Starting with easy-to-grow vegetables or flowers can build confidence and set you up for success.
5. Preparing a New Garden Space
Turning lawn into garden can be done in several ways. One budget-friendly option is using recycled cardboard to smother grass—simply layer it over the lawn and cover it with compost. Cardboard breaks down naturally and can remain in place.
Another method is solarization using a tarp, though the tarp must be removed before adding compost. With cardboard, you can plant directly into the compost placed on top.
6. Soil Quality
Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving garden. Improve both new and existing beds by adding compost. If possible, test your soil for pH and nutrient levels to ensure optimal plant growth.
7. Watering Needs
Make sure you have a reliable water source nearby. Whether you choose a drip irrigation system or a consistent manual watering schedule, planning ahead will save time and stress during the busy summer months.
Taking time now to research and plan your garden will pay off with healthier plants, higher yields, and a more enjoyable growing season.
Easy-to-Grow Vegetables and Flowers
If you’re new to gardening, start with plants known for their resilience and low maintenance.
Vegetables
Radishes – Fast-growing and extremely easy to care for
Lettuce – Grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times
Green Beans – Thrive in a variety of conditions
Zucchini – Prolific producers; a few plants go a long way
Tomatoes – Versatile and rewarding; provide stakes or cages
Peas – Simple to grow and ready early in the season
Flowers
Marigolds – Hardy, colorful, and help deter pests
Sunflowers – Cheerful, tall blooms that are easy to grow
Zinnias – Low-maintenance, colorful, and pollinator-friendly
Pansies – Tolerate cool weather and add early-season color
Cosmos – Effortless to grow with delicate blooms
Nasturtiums – Easy-growing, edible flowers with vibrant color
These beginner-friendly plants are forgiving and rewarding, making them perfect choices for new gardeners.
Happy gardening—and enjoy the planning process! 🌱