[journey826]

Sorry about the long list but at least now you can have it here for reference.

I am new to gardening also.I first found what zone I was in then I picked out the plants I liked.I then had to know what kind of soil was in my area(it helps to know this because of the fertilizing needs as well as soil additives that help).

Stick with plants that require minimal care when just staring to get your feet wet or it can be overwhelming.

Finding out what plants are native to your state helps because you don't want to get into invasive plants,while they can be beautiful they will grow like weeds and tear up all your hard work.

I love Lambs Ears and Chinese Lanterns but they are invasive to my state.I planted them but I have to keep them in check, a tiny baby plant will mature and spread fast in one season.

Also looking into the different kinds of mulch helps because they work with some plants better than others and some are poisonous to dogs (cocoa mulch is one)

I also love/planted Hydrangeas and Azaleas although they are poisonous to dogs so in the summer I have my work cut out.Mine is manageable because I have only a small area as I live in an apartment.I did however over crowd,which I do not suggest.




This is so true:
One thing you have to remember when you start a garden is that you have to plant for when the plant is mature. What I mean is, don't overcrowd your plants, plan your space for when the plant is mature.

You should visit a LOCAL INDEPENDENT nursery - not a chain nursery - and they will tell you the plants that are best grown in your area. Often the chain nurseries (or Walmart or Home Depot) have plants that are not appropriate for your area. When they die, it is not your fault, they should not have been sold to you.


I hope this helps and if I forgot anything I am sure someone with more knowledge will add in the missing pieces.

MOM to Hot Rod you have a beautiful home.