We are approaching the time of year when gardeners get restless. The seed catalogs are starting to fill our mailboxes and we want to play in the dirt.
Seasoned gardeners make plans and order seeds, but what if you’re a new gardener? Where do you start
The amount of information can be overwhelming, but don’t be intimidated. Talk to a garden neighbor, go to a local kindergarten to ask questions, and as always, contact your local cooperative expansion office.
Think about where you want your garden to be. First, think about how much sun your chosen location will get and think about which type of garden is best for you: raised beds, ground or container gardens,
Think about where your water source is and how far it is from your chosen location. Also take into account the distance to your house – because honestly, out of sight applies here. It’s easy to ignore these weeds when you can’t see them.
Sit down and check out these seed catalogs! Think about what your family likes to eat before you order and only plant what you love! Why plant zucchini if you hate it. Look at different varieties of old favorites and maybe throw in something new.
The following monthly to-do list is provided by Terroir Seeds in Chino Valley, Arizona. Their website is jam-packed with gardening information for Arizona gardeners, local climate-adapted seeds, and a wonderful reference. (https://underwoodgardens.com/february-planting-guide/).
When choosing your plants, consider your zone. Much of the White Mountains are in Zones 5-6. Therefore, choose varieties that do well in our climate.
Here are some things you can do while you wait!
• Draw your garden plan.
• Order seeds.
• Order onion bulbs now for the best selection and store in a cool place.
• Wash and sterilize the seed containers in one part bleach to nine parts water.
• Start some herbs in containers like fresh parsley or garlic chives.
• To give your vegetables an early start, use equipment to extend the season, e.g. B. cooling frames or breeding grounds.
• Start the short season tomato seeds at the end of the month under light. Place the grafts on in mid to late April and protect them with Wall O’Waters.
• Look for new weed growth as a sign that your soil is getting warm and ready.
• If the ground is not frozen, sow some spinach and radishes outside, face down.
• Try growing an indoor crop of lettuce lettuce under lights – plant lettuce in apartments and harvest before it’s time to start some of the later seedlings. You can try artificial light, but the air shouldn’t be too hot.
• Sprouts are now an easy and quick harvest.
Contact your branch office
Expansion offices across the state remain closed due to the pandemic. If you have any questions, please send an email to:
For more information, check out this remarkable University of Arizona publication, Ten Steps to a Successful Garden!
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