How to Set Gardening Goals, Budget, and Design Your Ideal Garden

If planting a garden is overwhelming, you’re doing it wrong! Time to take a break. Slowly step away from the shovel, take your gloves off and come inside for a drink of water. Gardening success stems from creativity, and a little advanced planning. That’s really it. Here are some suggestions to keep your stress levels low and your success rate high.

Set your goal

Before you dive into planting, it's essential to set clear garden goals. Whether you’re aiming to enhance curb appeal, become more self-sufficient, or create a tranquil backyard retreat, defining your main objective will guide your decisions and set the stage for a successful garden. Here are some common goals to consider:

• Grow Vegetables to Save on Groceries

• Boost Curb Appeal with Stunning Plantings

• Attract Pollinators

• Restore a Native Habitat

• Create a Moon Garden

• Build a Backyard Retreat

Once you’ve established your goal, it’s crucial to define your parameters. Make sure your goal is specific and realistic, considering factors like time, budget, and workload. A clear, manageable objective will keep you focused and motivated throughout the gardening process.

Determine a budget

Gardening can be costly, so setting a realistic budget is key. If you're working with limited funds, consider using plants you already have. Many perennials, such as strawberries, hostas, and hydrangeas, can be divided and relocated to your new garden. This approach can

save you a substantial amount of money.

For vegetable gardens requiring trellises, explore options in your garage or even find repurposed items from the side of the road to create a functional and budget-friendly trellis.

Do your research

To avoid wasting money on plants that may not thrive, it’s important to do thorough research before you start. Visit local nurseries, read plant tags, and consult with gardening professionals or experienced friends. The more informed you are, the better your garden will perform.

Choose the Right Location

With your goal and budget in place, it’s time to select the ideal spot for your garden. Consider these factors:

• Sunlight: Most vegetables and flowering plants need 8+ hours of sunlight daily, while leafy greens and shade-tolerant plants thrive with 4-6 hours. Conduct a sunlight study to identify the best locations and adjust for seasonal changes and shading from deciduous trees.

• Convenience: Choose a location that you pass frequently to monitor your plants and address any issues promptly. For vegetable and herb gardens, proximity to the house can make harvesting easier.

• Water Access: Plan how you will water your garden. Determine if you need irrigation, a watering can, or if your hose can reach the garden bed. Efficient watering is crucial for plant health.

• Soil Quality: Assess your soil’s nutrient levels and drainage before planting. You can use services like UMASS Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory for soil analysis.

Sketch Your Garden Design

Now comes the creative part. Use graphing paper to sketch your garden layout, including the shape and size of your plot. Decide on the types of plants you want and their placement based on their size and growing requirements.

Shop around

With your design in hand, visit local nurseries to purchase your plants. Compare prices to stay within budget and ensure you have enough plants to achieve a lush, full garden. When planting, aim to group at least five of the same species together for a cohesive look.

Get it done

Don’t let overthinking prevent you from starting your garden. If your initial site doesn’t work out, you can always try a different location or amend the soil later. Gardening often involves trial and error, and what works for one garden may not work for another.

The key is to plan ahead and then get outside to start planting. Remember, gardening can be addictive, so budget your time wisely and take breaks when needed. Enjoy the process and embrace the journey of creating your perfect garden!

Love,

Bedhead