Simpler Living Blog

GARDENING, TIPS AND TOOLS

Tips and Tools for Planting a Garden

Are you dreaming of homegrown tomatoes and crisp cucumbers right from the garden? Growing your own fruits and veggies is not only practical but delicious too. It can help you save on pricey trips to the grocery store and give you control over your food supply. You can even preserve those fresh flavors for later by canning and freezing your harvest.

But where do you start? And how can you improve on last year’s harvest? It all starts with simple planning and having the right tools on hand.

Here are our tips and tools for planting a garden.

1. Know what and when to plant.

Different plants thrive in different climates. A garden planner can help you determine what and when to plant based on your gardening zone.

Easy to Use: Lehman’s Garden Planner

Lehman's Garden Planner for Planting — Slide it to your area’s expected last frost date and begin your planning. Includes planting and harvesting info for 22 common vegetables in North America! Available at lehmans.pro

A Great Gardening Resource: The Veggie Gardener’s Answer Book

Secure Your Food Supply: Lehman’s Premium Heirloom Seed Vault – 30 Varieties

Lehman's Premium Seed Vault for Food Security — Get all the seeds you need in one kit! Great for planting year after year or store the seeds long-term as part of your emergency preparedness kit. Available at lehmans.pro

2. Use your space efficiently.

Invest in garden helpers to get the most out of your space. Trellises and fences help vining plants grow vertically, giving them support and keeping them off the ground. Perfect for peas, cucumbers, squash, and more!

Raised garden beds are great for patios and small yards. If you’re working in tight quarters, consider using smaller planters or a vertical garden planter.

(Helpful Hint: Elevated raised beds are another great option not only for small spaces but for anyone who wants to reduce strenuous bending while gardening.)

Best Support for Peas: Pea Fence/Straw Bale Fence – Set of 2

Pea Fence for growing peas — This handy pea fence prevents plants from tangling, so you can plant closer and pick peas easily. Available at lehmans.pro

Best Support for Cucumbers and Squash: A-Frame Garden Trellis

Cucumber and squash trellis for gardening — This heavy duty A-Frame design keeps long vines off the ground while ensuring a consistent level of squash and cucumber support. Available at lehmans.pro

Best Durable Garden Bed: Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit

3. Plan for pests now for a healthy harvest.

Protect your garden with natural solutions for destructive moles and insects. Try a Mole Chasing Windmill to keep moles away. Invite bats to your yard by putting up a bat house, and they’ll take care of pesky flies, mosquitoes, and other insects.

You can also plant insect-repelling flowers, like marigolds and lavender. There are plenty of chemical-free ways to keep your garden healthy and safe!

Humane Mole Deterrent: Mole Chasing Windmill