How to Grow A Summer Garden

Assuming that you already have gardening space and gardening tools having a garden plan is the most important step in planning a summer garden. Whether you choose to have a cutting garden or a vegetable and herb garden is up to you, but by planning beforehand you will be assured of a successful summer garden.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Seeds
• Annuals
• Perennials
• Garden Space
• Plan

1. 
   A Butterfly Garden is a beautiful garden to plan.

   Know your gardening area or zone. Talk to local gardening shops, do research online or read gardening magazines and books. Knowing what you are capable of growing in your gardening zone is the first step to growing a successful garden. Different varieties of plants, vegetables and herbs grow better than others in different parts of the country.

2. 
   Pansies grow great in containers.

   Decide how much time and money you have for a garden. The first few years are the hardest and most time consuming as you learn what works and doesn't work in your area. Growing in containers might be easier if you don't have a lot of time or money for gardening. Growing perennials instead of annuals can also save time.

3. 
   Columbine, Colorado's flower

   Know what you want out of a garden. If you love tomatoes and there are varieties that grow best in your zone, grow tomatoes. But be prepared for your harvest. If you just love cut flowers, consider growing a cutting garden. Save money by starting from seed or ask your neighbors for cuttings and bulbs when they are cleaning up their garden.

4. 
   Yellow Iris from a bulb exchange.

   Plan ahead. Sketch out your garden using graph paper and real dimensions.
   Buy seeds and plants locally so you can talk to the nursery about your specific growing conditions. Don't get carried away by all of the pretty seed packets. By having a plan beforehand you will avoid overspending on your garden. Buy used garden equipment at yard and garage sales.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're new to the area consider joining a local garden club, taking a gardening class or do a seed/bulb exchange with neighbors.
• Don't go overboard and spend too much at the nursery. Having a gardening plan will save you money and time.
• Knowing what you want in a garden is a good first question.
• Grow a recession garden by planning a garden around what your family eats the most. If they don't like zucchini it doesn't make sense to spend the money to grow it.
• Gardening can be addictive and like all addictions cost money. Be a frugal gardener and enjoy your green space.

Resources

• Garden Planning Kit
• Animal, Vegetable, Miracle

[ptb49er]

on 5/12/2009 Wonderful...I cannot wait to get started on my backyard! 5* and a rec.

[dzagotti]

on 4/19/2009 Fantastic article!

[chrissyjohnson]

on 4/16/2009 Great tips on How to Grow A Summer Garden! 5* rec

[crazycatlady]

on 3/12/2009 I have spent the last month paging through seed catalogs. Great tips, especially the last one. I forgot I don't have any gardening tools!

[tachic]

on 2/22/2009 Good tips. My dogs won't let me grow anything out back though. =(