As a beginner gardener my greatest frustration was not knowing what to plant and when to do it. Living here in Phoenix, our growing season is usually completely opposite of the rest of the country; trying to follow most online gardeners left me with nothing growing, stunted growth or burned-up plants. It was really important for me to find specific guidance on what to plant and when to do it!
So let me share the few sites and books that have helped me along the way.
What to Plant and When to Do It
Online Help:
Burpee – Also a zip code planting guide. I like this one because everything is on one page; but it isn’t very detailed. It is also limited to the vegetable seeds that they sell. A good visual aid and place to start.
Mother Earth News – With this zip code guide you get a planting calendar AND e-mail reminders. They also have apps for the iPad and iPhone.
All Things Plants – Simply plug in your zip code and this online app will give you a planting strategy, as well as a calendar. Very helpful!
Local Help:
Your County Extension Office – ours has an pdf calendar that I print out and cross reference to my other resources. But usually this one is spot on. Click the link to find your local office.
Nurseries – talk to your reputable nursery workers. Many of them are local experts, gardeners themselves and some even hold degrees.
Books:
Farmer’s Almanac – the gold standard and much more than just your planting calendar
Local books – check out the local section of your Barnes and Noble for planting and gardening guides written specifically for your area. These can be a treasure; mine is bent, water stained with a broken spine. 😉
All these resources are wonderful tools to aid you in your gardening ventures. Now just get out there and PLANT!
Have a link, app or book you could recommend for this list? Message me or leave it in the comments! 🙂
