The First-Time Gardener

To the new homeowner that inherited a stalk-filled and abandoned garden or the new home with a blank canvas for new landscaping, where to begin can feel overwhelming.

You could be in desperate need of a landscape makeover, or you simply need to add some curb appeal. Whatever the situation, I have some good gardening news.

Don’t pressure yourself into believing that you have to compete with your neighborhood Martha Stewart from down the street. Your neighbor has probably been gardening their entire life; you’re trying something new.

Step one: Make a plan. Sit down with a pencil and paper and sketch out your dream garden. Go big, don’t hold back; just keep in mind that it takes years to develop an established garden.

Step two: Discover your favorite flowers. Are they annual or perennial, and what’s the difference? Perennials become friends that return year after year; annuals are with us just for a season. After you’ve learned everything you can about your favorite blooms, find out if they’ll survive in your zone. My zone? You’ll need to know your USDA Hardiness Zone. Basically, your location on the map will tell you if a plant will survive the winter. Central PA is zone 5-6. Chances are, if it’s sold here, it’s zone hardy here.

Step three: Start small. Don’t overflow your cart at your favorite greenhouse. Too much in a new garden can burn out you and your plants in a hurry. If you’ve been inspired by someone’s lush, full of color, ever-blooming garden, chances are it’s in its third or fourth season. Throughout my years of gardening, I have encountered my share of gardening friends who want magazine cover results instantly. Lower the expectation by picking three of four sure to bloom, easy-care perennials instead of the 10 or 12 you’ve drawn in your plans. Once you’ve mastered your beginners, add more each season.

Step four: Start digging. With designs in hand, it’s time to create your dream garden, but only after you’ve called 8-1-1 to find out about underground power lines and areas to avoid digging.

Step five: Planting, maintaining, and learning. Plant just as the tags on the plants and your research tell you to for spacing, height and your unique design. Nurse and care for your perennials throughout the season. Gardening is not just an adventurous spring activity; maintaining the health and well-being of a perennial garden is a spring through fall chore. Some of your plants may die. A hosta does not do well in a full-sun garden. This is how we learn to garden. I know that I won’t make that mistake again.

And finally, next year, continue adding, continue caring for and continue experimenting with perennials that are new to you. Above all, make certain that you are having fun and exploring your creative side. Soon, your neighborhood Martha Stewart will be envying your flower display.

Bryon May is a lifelong perennial landscaper and the host of the “Fresh Clippings” podcast.