Spring Planting Tips for Gardeners of Every Level

Growing your own food can be an affordable way to get your favorite produce in the convenience of your own home. The planting season is approaching quickly, and being prepared ahead of time will let your garden flourish and help you get the most out of the planting season. Since we have such a warm climate from spring on, many fruits and vegetables can have full growing seasons, even harvesting late into July. Check out these tips for spring planting that will give you a head start this season!

What to plant
Spring is a great time for a garden because you can plant so many delicious foods like tomatoes, onions, lettuce, peppers, and much more. Choosing what to plant can be hard, but try to focus on space, what your favorite foods are, and how much time you have to dedicate to the garden. Some plants take up a lot of space and can demand a lot of water, so if you do have minimal planting space try choosing plants like lettuce, peppers, onions, broccoli, and tomatoes. Squash, pumpkins, and melons can take up a larger space, but if you want these types of fruits and vegetables in your home, growing them will save you money in the long run. Growing what you eat most will eliminate food waste, so choose your favorites. 
 
When to plant
When you plant your garden depends mostly on what types of plants you are using. Starter plants, seeds, or matured plants from a nursery or farmers market will all have different start dates. The packages usually provide enough information on when to plant, but the farmer’s almanac is also a good source for any concerns and questions about starting plants. Starting from seeds does sometimes require germination – for more on how to do that in your home, check out this video. If you are starting your seeds indoors, they should be started as soon as possible so they can be transplanted and have a full growing season. Some seeds such as beans, beets, carrots and corn can be started from seed in the ground. Buying starter plants for tomatoes and peppers can make it easier, and also help you make sure they make it through the full growing season. Double Up recommends finding your garden vendors at the market and asking any questions you may have. They are really helpful, and even have some unique plant varietals like lemon basil, sweet red onions, and Fresno chili pepper plants. 
 
How to plant
Preparing your garden for a successful grow is important. From shading to sunlight, there are better outcomes if preparation is thought out carefully. Too much shade is not good, and neither is too much sun. However, planting in an area with too much sun as opposed to too much shade is typically better, as makeshift shading can be added. A 4x4 plot is a good start for any garden and can usually fit on patios, in large yards, and even on the front porch. Soil and nutrients can be purchased at your local nursery – you don’t have to break the bank on these items, simple is better! Fruit and vegetable soils and fruit and vegetable nutrients will be the best option for a fully edible garden. Starting off with a modest but functional garden will yield the most success. This allows you to focus on the plants closely and really get a large harvest when the time comes. 
 
Spring is coming, and planning for your garden early is never a bad idea. Use these guidelines to get ahead and warm up your green thumb. Double Up on your gardening skills and your delicious fruits and veggies all year round with our gardening tips and tricks!