As winter sets in, many people are already looking forward to planting time. Even though it may be cold and snowy outside, you can still start planning for your flower or vegetable garden now. Gardening has gained popularity in the past couple of years. This can make it harder to find the supplies you need if you wait until the last minute. But if you start planning now for your spring garden, you can find everything you need to get started when planting time arrives. Research which plants can be started indoors and decide what supplies you need so you’re well prepared for gardening season.
Find the best seeds
Growing your own food is very satisfying. Not only do you know how the food was grown, but you can learn a lot from gardening. This knowledge means you can expand and try growing new plants in the future. If you want to be able to save seeds from your plants, be sure to choose ones that are labeled as “organic” or “heirloom.” While these seeds can be pricier than others, they can provide you with seeds for years to come. If you save seeds each year, you never have to buy them again. Hybrid seeds, while readily available and usually easy to grow, are most often sterile so you can’t save the seeds for future growing seasons. I’ve used NeSeed for several years and they have a good selection and reasonable prices. Know your planting zone and find plants that will work best in your area.
Start plants indoors
Most seed packets tell you how and when to plant the seeds for the best growth. Not all plants do well with being transplanted outdoors after starting inside. Those that do allow you to save time and get a quicker harvest. Plants like tomatoes and peppers can be started very early indoors. But be aware that you may need to harden off your plants so as not to shock them in their new outdoor home. Some people like to use grow lights to start herbs and other plants indoors. They can even be used to grow plants year-round. You can also use an indoor greenhouse to get your plants started.
Planting a garden can be done nearly anywhere. Even if you have limited outdoor space you can grow plants in containers. Know your climate and planting zone to better understand which plants do well in your area. It’s never too late to become more self-sufficient when it comes to growing your own food. Herbs, vegetables, and fruits taste much fresher when you grow them yourself. Plus, you can preserve them by canning, dehydrating, or freezing to have a supply on hand throughout the winter. Recent supply chain issues have shown just how important it is to depend more on yourself for providing food for your family. Start planning now for your spring garden so you’re ready to get those plants in the ground at the right time.
