Planting Power: Kickstart Your Summer Garden

There’s something undeniably magical about the start of summer. The days stretch longer, the sun warms the soil, and the garden beckons with the promise of fresh blooms and homegrown harvests. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, now is the perfect time to kick your summer garden into gear.

Welcome to the first post in our gardening series, where we’ll guide you through growing your best garden yet—with a little know-how, a lot of joy, and just enough dirt under your nails.

1. Prep Your Plot

The foundation of any thriving garden is healthy soil. Start by clearing out weeds and old plant debris. Test your soil if you can—it helps determine what nutrients might be lacking. Add compost or organic matter to give your garden that power-packed start.

Tip: Raised beds or containers are great for beginners and allow for more control over soil quality and drainage.

2. Plan Your Layout

Think about what you want to grow. Herbs? Salad greens? Tomatoes? Peppers? Group plants with similar needs together—like sun-loving veggies or moisture-loving herbs. Sketch out your space or use a garden planning app to map it all out.

Pro move: Mix in pollinator-friendly flowers like marigolds or nasturtiums to attract bees and butterflies.

3. Choose Summer-Strong Plants

Go for warm-season crops that thrive in summer heat. Some go-to choices:

• Tomatoes: Choose indeterminate varieties for ongoing harvests.

• Zucchini & Squash: Fast growers that produce like crazy.

• Peppers: From sweet bells to hot habaneros, there’s a pepper for everyone.

• Herbs: Basil, mint, cilantro, and thyme love the sun.

4. Water Wisely

Morning watering is best to avoid evaporation and fungal diseases. Deep, less frequent watering encourages roots to grow deeper, making plants more drought-resistant. Mulch around your plants to retain moisture and keep weeds down.

5. Feed & Protect

Your plants will need some help as they grow—think of it like giving them a summer smoothie. Use organic fertilizers or compost tea every few weeks. Keep an eye out for pests, but don’t panic—most can be managed naturally.

This summer, let your garden be your sanctuary. A space to grow food, cultivate peace, and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. Stay tuned for more tips and plant profiles in our gardening series—we’re just getting started!