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.

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Gardening Tips

7 Best Perennials to Winter Sow

For greatest success, gardeners form a plan for spring, including some of the best perennials. Winter sow these seven perennial plants for years of blooms that form the backbone of an ecologically friendly garden. Experienced gardener Sarah Jay discusses how to do it here.

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Gardening Tips

How to Start Seeds in Toilet Paper Rolls

Winter is a great time to start seeds. Toilet paper rolls make great containers for those who want a sustainable, zero-waste option to do it. There are a few particulars to consider if you want to go this route. Thankfully, experienced gardener Sarah Jay has used this method before.

An overhead and close-up shot of a person in the process of plants sprouted seeds, showcasing how to pre-sprout seeds

Seeds

How and Why to Pre-Sprout Seeds Before Growing

Every year, we gather our seeds and starting supplies to start the spring garden. If we’re dealing with old seeds or hard-to-germinate ones, we can use a fun trick to save ourselves some space and money! Experienced gardener Sarah Jay walks you through why and how to pre-sprout seeds for more success in spring.

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Seeds

7 Native Plant Seeds You Can Direct Sow in Winter

When should you direct-sow native plant seeds? Winter and fall are the best times to do it! Gather your native seeds, and get your substrate ready. Experienced gardener and Master Naturalist Sarah Jay covers 7 native plants seeds you can sow in the cold.

Seed starting under lights, showing purple lights placed a top a layer of sprouts with rounded green leaves and whitish stems

Seeds

Seed Starting Under Lights: Getting a Jump on Winter Growing

Starting seeds indoors during winter gives you a head start on the growing season and expands the possibilities of what you can grow. Gardening expert Madison Moulton explains how to use grow lights for winter seed starting, from choosing what to plant to transplanting healthy seedlings.

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Seeds

January Seed-Starting Calendar: What to Start Week by Week

It’s time to prep your January seed starting calendar and get organized ahead of the spring season. No matter where you live and what kind of weather you expect for the beginning of the year, a good plan goes a long way. Experienced gardener Sarah Jay takes you through the month, week by week, to help you figure out what to do.

A shot of a composition of jewel tone colored flowers, showcasing blue, purple and pink hues, placed on a yard area, showcasing 2026 gardening trends

Gardening Inspiration

2026 Gardening Trends to Try Now

Garden trends are constantly evolving, reflecting changes in how we think about our outdoor spaces. Gardening expert Madison Moulton explores 9 trends shaping gardens in 2026, from wildlife-friendly choices to bold design statements you can try in your own backyard.