The new year has arrived, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve already started daydreaming about the smell of fresh soil, the warmth of the sun on your back, and the rows of veggies, flowers, and herbs just waiting to grow. January might feel like a sleepy time for gardening, but trust me, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for spring.
Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide that’s simple, doable, and will set you up for a lush, thriving garden.
Step 1: Dream Big and Map It Out
Grab a notebook, a cup of coffee (or tea!), and start dreaming. What do you want to grow this year? Veggies? Flowers? A mix of both? Think about the space you have and how you want to use it. If you’re like me and love a good visual, sketch out your garden beds or containers. Include pathways, trellises, or even a spot for a small greenhouse if you’re planning to go big this year.
Don’t stress about perfection—this is your chance to dream. Whether it’s a few pots on the patio or a full-blown backyard garden, getting a rough map in place will help make your vision feel real.
Step 2: Choose Your Seeds
January is prime time to start browsing seed catalogs. They’re like candy stores for gardeners, full of possibilities. Think about your climate, how much sunlight your space gets, and your goals. Are you looking for hardy veggies that practically grow themselves (hello, radishes and kale)? Or maybe you’re ready to try your hand at heirloom tomatoes or a cutting garden filled with zinnias and cosmos.
For beginners, here are some easy-to-grow options to consider:
-
Veggies: Radishes, lettuce, spinach, green beans, zucchini, and carrots are excellent for new gardeners. They’re forgiving and grow quickly, giving you a sense of accomplishment early in the season.
-
Flowers: Marigolds, sunflowers, zinnias, and nasturtiums are great choices. They’re vibrant, low-maintenance, and some (like marigolds and nasturtiums) even help repel pests.
-
Herbs: Basil, parsley, chives, and dill are perfect for beginners. They’re easy to grow in pots or directly in the garden, and they’ll keep your kitchen stocked with fresh flavors all season long.
Pro Tip: Order your seeds early! Popular varieties can sell out fast, and getting ahead now means you’ll have what you need when it’s time to plant.
Step 3: Start Prepping the Soil
Healthy soil is the backbone of a good garden. Even though it’s cold outside, you can get a head start on improving your soil. Here’s how:
-
Test Your Soil: You can grab an inexpensive soil test kit online or at your local garden center. Knowing your soil’s pH and nutrient levels will help you understand what amendments it might need.
-
Add Organic Matter: If the ground isn’t frozen solid, work in compost or well-rotted manure. If it’s too cold to dig, simply spread it over the surface—the worms will help mix it in when the ground warms up.
-
Cover Crops or Mulch: If you planted cover crops in the fall, you’re ahead of the game. If not, adding a layer of straw or mulch now will help protect the soil and keep weeds at bay until you’re ready to plant.
Step 4: Plan for a Greenhouse (Optional, but Amazing!)
If you’ve been dreaming of extending your growing season or starting seedlings in style, January is a great time to start planning for a greenhouse. It doesn’t have to be big or fancy. My DIY greenhouse guides, like the Petunia or Lavender, are great options if you’re looking for something budget-friendly and manageable.
Think about your space and budget, and start gathering materials. Even a small greenhouse can make a huge difference by giving you a head start on the growing season.
Step 5: Organize Your Tools and Supplies
Take inventory of what you already have and what you might need to replace. Are your gloves full of holes? Is your trowel hiding somewhere in the shed? Now’s the time to clean and sharpen your tools, stock up on essentials like seed trays or starter soil, and organize your space so everything is easy to find when spring arrives.
Step 6: Set a Realistic Schedule
Finally, make a plan that works for you. Gardening doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing activity. Break tasks into small, manageable chunks and spread them out over the coming months. This way, you can enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed.
For example, in January, you can map out your garden and order seeds. In February, focus on soil prep and organizing your tools. By March, you’ll be ready to start seedlings indoors or prep your outdoor beds as the weather warms up.
Remember, It’s Supposed to Be Fun!
Gardening is one of those things that’s as rewarding as it is calming. Starting early in January gives you the chance to enjoy every step without rushing. Plus, when spring arrives, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running—or planting, as the case may be.
So, grab that notebook, start sketching, and let the excitement of spring gardening carry you through these cold winter months. Your future self—and your garden—will thank you!
