Tips For New Gardeners There’s nothing we love more at Gale’s Westlake Garden Center than helping our customers find the best plants and plant products for their needs and desires. So if you’re a first timer or simply need a spring refresher course, here’s some advice to get you started: One question we frequently get from first time gardeners is “What can I get that will bloom all year?” It hurts, but someone has to tell them, “In our region? Not a thing.” But don’t be disappointed. With a little redirection, and an understanding that gardening is more a process than a one-time project, the real fun begins. Every garden is unique and seeing the results of the growing process is pure joy. Know your limitations. You may fantasize about creating a fabulous Van Gogh sunflower patch but learn too late that your yard doesn’t get enough sun. You may visualize a sea of pink hydrangeas in front of your purple lilacs then discover these types of plants bloom at different times during the season, each thriving in particular conditions. Other factors such as wind, available water, soil quality, surrounding plants and buildings all factor in each unique landscape. A little research goes a long way. Prepare your soil. The biggest mistake of first time gardeners is not preparing their soil. Sure, mother nature can drop a few seeds here and there and create a forest but chances are slim it’s that easy in your own backyard. A simple soil test can save you a lot of aggravation. Gale’s Westlake’s Lawn and Garden Department experts can help. Just bring a plastic bag or container with a golf ball-sized chunk of soil on your next visit. We’ll analyze it for pH level, free-of-charge, and show you exactly what to do to get ready for planting. We can also help you find favorite plants for your garden soil type and sun exposure and suggest companion plantings that will thrive. How much time and interest do you have in tending your plants? Do you prefer a low maintenance garden? Consider native plants that need less water, are disease resistant and need minimal care. If you prefer more exotic plants, do some research. Will they grow in our area? Do they have special needs, such as sandy soil, or require daily maintenance? And, most importantly, are you willing to take the time to help them flourish? There’s always something new to learn. Got a question? Keep a good basic gardening book handy. A notebook also helps. On rainy days learn more about gardening on one of the many television gardening shows, visit one of the valuable gardening websites like our own www.galeswestlake.com, or stop by and ask one of Gale’s Westlake’s many certified garden specialists for advice. We’re always here to help. And remember, great gardening advice often comes over the fence from a seasoned gardener. Gardeners love to talk with other gardeners and to share. Besides some great advice, you may end up with some shared seeds, a plant cutting or two, and some freshly picked tomatoes!