As the chilly days of winter settle in, it’s the perfect time to start dreaming about next year’s garden. Planning ahead gives you a head start on creating a vibrant, thriving outdoor space that reflects your style and meets your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a budding gardener, these five steps will help you design the garden of your dreams.
Step 1: Reflect on Last Year’s Garden
Take a moment to think about what worked and what didn’t in your garden this past year. Did your plants thrive, or were there areas that needed more attention? Write down what you loved and what you’d like to improve.
Tips:
- Create a “success list” of plants that performed well.
- Note any pest or soil issues that need addressing.
- Reflect on your garden’s layout—did it feel organized and accessible?
Step 2: Define Your Vision for Next Year
Start with the big picture. How do you want your garden to look and feel? Do you envision a colorful space filled with blooms, a calming green retreat, or a functional space for growing your own food?
Inspiration Ideas:
- For vibrant color: Include Rio Dipladenias with their continuous blooms in shades of red, pink, and white.
- For a tropical vibe: Add Garden Tropics plants for a lush, exotic feel.
- For versatility: Incorporate Awesome Accents as unique fillers for borders or containers.
Step 3: Plan Your Layout
Mapping out your garden is a fun and creative way to organize your ideas. Whether you prefer sketching on paper or using garden planning apps, having a layout ensures you maximize your space.
Key Considerations:
- Sunlight: Place sun-loving plants, like Dipladenias, in the brightest areas.
- Soil: Test for pH levels, drainage, and fertility to identify necessary amendments.
- Spacing: Ensure each plant has enough room to grow to its full potential.
Step 4: Choose the Right Plants
Selecting the right plants is essential for a successful garden. Focus on a mix of plants that match your climate, soil type, and aesthetic goals.
Plant Picks:
- For Easy Care: Dipladenias are drought-tolerant and bloom all season long.
- For Pops of Interest: Awesome Accents are the easy care solution to add interest to garden beds and containers.
- For Structure: Fabulous Ferns make great focal points or fillers for shaded spots.
Step 5: Gather Supplies and Set a Timeline
Once your plan is in place, start organizing the supplies you’ll need. Winter is the perfect time to clean and repair garden tools, purchase seeds, and prepare your soil.
Checklist:
- Create a planting timeline based on your local growing season.
- Plan for any garden features like trellises, raised beds, or containers.
- Sign up for Fresh Shipment Alerts and get notified when plants are arriving at a garden center near you!
With these five steps, you’re well on your way to creating a stunning garden for next year. Taking the time to plan now ensures a smoother, more enjoyable gardening season when the warmer months arrive. Don’t forget to sign up for Fresh Shipment Alerts to be notified first when plants are arriving at garden center near you!
