Starting A
Garden
Spring is a great time to start a garden, but a little planning before your start digging can go a long way.
1. Get an idea. Is this going to be a vegetable garden? An herb garden? A flower garden? The amount of sun exposure and access to water will play a big part in what plants you'll be able to grow.
2. Pick a place. Almost all vegetables and most flowers need about six hours of full sun each day. Spend a day in your chosen spot and watch how the sun moves across the space. But don't despair if your lot is largely sunless; many plants tolerate shade.
3. Buy some garden tools. There are all kinds of tools and gadgets designed to make gardening easier and more
enjoyable. Don't go overboard in buying tools right away, but be sure to invest in a few good ones.
4. Clear the ground. Get rid of the sod covering the area you plan to plant. Digging loosens the soil so roots can penetrate more easily, but digging when the soil is too wet or too dry can ruin its structure. Dig only when the soil is moist enough to form a loose ball in your fist, but dry enough to fall apart when you drop it.
5. Improve the soil. Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of compost, decayed leaves, dry grass clippings, or old manure to give your soil a boost.