10 Tips for New Gardeners

Don't Plant Too Soon

Many people may be itching to plant in their gardens on the first mild day of spring, but Charlie says that's a mistake. "If you plant too soon, [plants] will get hit by frost and die," he says. "Also, if they have to live through the first few weeks of their lives too cold or too wet—if they survive—they may not produce as well." Check with a neighbor who gardens, a master gardener or a local botanical garden and find out when most people start planting in your area.