Basics

Whether you're new to gardening or experienced, everyone needs some gardening basics to get going!

In this category, you'll find a wealth of information that spans a wide number of topics. From seed starting to grow bag gardening, pruning tips to raised bed tricks, you'll find the fundamentals of gardening awaiting you here.

While it's optimized towards new gardeners, even a pro can find useful tips in our Basics category. We all need to get back to basics sometimes, and there are always useful tools and tips that other gardeners have developed along the way to add to your own practices.

Our Basics category can inspire you to new gardening heights, too. Those who have experience with in-ground planting can learn about other techniques such as raised beds or vertical gardening.

A close-up shot of a composition of various crops, carrots, beets, radish and lettuce, all on rich soil, showcasing do not start seeds indoors

Seeds

Do Not Start These 9 Seeds Indoors

Some seeds are better sown directly in the garden rather than started indoors in trays. Gardening expert Madison Moulton explains which common vegetables don't transplant well and why direct sowing gives you better results.

A close-up shot of a small composition of potted plants and its fruits, all situated in a well lit area indoors, showcasing bottom heat seeds

Seeds

9 Seeds That Need Bottom Heat to Germinate

Some seeds germinate reliably at room temperature, but others need warmer soil to sprout within a reasonable timeframe. Gardening expert Madison Moulton shares nine common seeds that benefit from bottom heat and explains when it's worth the investment.

Knowing what plant february zone , considering the cold weather showing a woman starting seeds indoors with abundant bright light

Gardening Tips

What to Plant in February: Zone by Zone

Would it be great if there were a guide for what to plant in February, zone by zone? Well, there is, and it’s right here! Follow along with experienced gardener Sarah Jay as she covers what each USDA hardiness region should plant this month.

A close-up shot of a person in the process of assembling a black tray with soil and ovules. showcasing seed-starting zones 2-4

Seeds

Seed-Starting in Cold Climates: Tips for Zones 2-4

When it comes to seed starting, zones 2-4 may seem like a hard spot to do it. However, they are actually prime areas for seed starting if you know what to do! Experienced gardener Sarah Jay walks growers in these zones through a few tips to start seeds with ease.

A photo of a humidity domes germination, appearing to have small greens inside of the tray placed somewhere with indirect light

Seeds

How to Use Humidity Domes to Speed Up Seed Germination

If you’ve ever used them, you know that with humidity domes, germination improves. Choose the right dome, and you have seeds in optimal conditions for sprouting. Experienced gardener, Sarah Jay, discusses why domes are so effective and which ones to use.

A close-up and overhead shot of an opened packet of plant ovules, placed on a wooden surface, showcasing how long seeds last

Gardening Tips

How Long Do Seeds Last? 3 Ways to Test Viability

From year to year, it’s hard to determine how long seeds last without testing them. But there are ways to know the viability of your seeds even before you plant them. Follow along with experienced gardener, Sarah Jay, as she covers three ways to test your seeds.

A close-up shot of a large pruner, in the process of trimming branches and leaves of a tree, showcasing january pruning guide plants

Gardening Tips

January Pruning Guide: 5 Plants to Prune this Month

It’s time for your January pruning guide! Plants on this list are prime for pruning this month – some with caveats. Late winter is a great time to shape certain trees and shrubs. Experienced gardener Sarah Jay covers five plants to prune now and offers tips on how to do it.