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.

An overhead shot of several developing leafy greens

Gardening Inspiration

35 Different Types of Lettuce to Grow This Season

Are you looking for the right variety of lettuce to grow in your garden this season, but can't decide what to plant? There are many different types of lettuce to choose from, depending on your hardiness zone. In this article, gardening expert and organic farmer Jenna Rich looks at the most popular types of lettuce you can test in your vegetable garden this season.

Gardening Inspiration

23 Different Types of Summer Squash Varieties

Are you looking for some summer squash to plant in your garden this season but aren't sure which type to pick? There are many varieties you can choose from, so finding the right variety for your hardiness zone is important. In this article, gardening expert Jenna Rich looks at her favorite types of summer squash you can grow!

Gardening Inspiration

When and How to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors

Starting your tomato seeds indoors provides quite a few different benefits. It allows gardeners in colder climates to get a head start on their spring gardens, while eliminating some early direct-sowing risks. In this article, organic farmer Jenna Rich walks through how and when to start seeding your tomatoes indoors this season.

Gardening Inspiration

9 Tips For Growing Ficus Benjamina Indoors

Ficus trees can be grown indoors successfully if provided proper maintenance and care. These popular trees can make excellent houseplants with the right care routine. In this article, gardening expert Emily Horn shares everything you need to know about growing Ficus Trees indoors, including tips for maintenance and care.

An image of a rake gardening over hundreds of leaves that have fallen on the ground in autumn. The leaves are orange and red in color and have changed due to the seasonality.

Gardening Tips

15 Gardening Tasks You’ll Be Happy You Did This Fall

Everyone loves to get prepared in the garden at the end of winter or the beginning of spring. But there's actually several gardening tasks you can do in the fall to set yourself up for success next season. In this article, organic gardening expert Logan Hailey walks through her top gardening tasks to take on this fall before first frost!

A close-up shot of a large composition of various flowers and other foliage, all situated in a well lit area outdoors and is showcasing lavender companion plants

Companion Planting

15 Lavender Companion Plants for Maximum Blooms

Are you looking for some companion plants for your garden grown lavender this season? Luckily, there are plenty of options to compliment your lavender garden! In this article, organic gardening expert and former organic lavender farmer Logan Hailey looks at her favorite lavender companion plants!

tomatoes and brussel sprouts

Companion Planting

Can You Plant Tomatoes With Brussels Sprouts?

Thinking of planting some brussel sprouts in your garden this season, but not sure if these two plants are quite compatible together? In this article, gardening expert and homesteader Merideth Cohrs examines if it's a good idea to plant brussel sprouts next to your tomatoes this season!

A close-up shot of a raised bed with a trellis showcasing eggplant companion plants

Companion Planting

21 Companion Plants To Grow With Eggplants

Looking for some plants to grow alongside your garden eggplants this season? There are many different options, including herbs, flowers, and other vegetables. In this article, gardening expert Merideth Corhs looks at her favorite plants to pair with eggplants in the garden.

potato companions

Companion Planting

32 Companion Plants To Grow With Potatoes

Are you looking for the perfect companion plant for your potatoes this year? There are plenty of different plants you can grow with potatoes, and a few that you should avoid. In this article, organic gardening expert Logan Hailey examines her favorite potato companions, and the plants you should also avoid!