o help you make the most of the growing season, we’ve put together some smart gardening tips for every gardener, whether you’re a newbie or an experienced hand. Even for veteran gardeners, it’s a good idea to take the time to review essential basics.
Safety First
Safety should always come first, especially when the weather is nice and it's tempting to get straight to gardening. Review these safety tips before you begin:
If you have pets, avoid planting anything that's potentially harmful to them. Check the ASPCA list of toxic and non-toxic plants to ensure your garden is pet-friendly.1
Before digging, call 811 to mark underground utility lines. Many utilities are buried just a few inches underground, so be cautious and avoid any unintentional damage by locating them, if any exist.2
Clean and sharpen your gardening tools before use. Refresh your memory on using lawnmowers and other electric tools. To prevent injuries, warm up and stretch your body before lifting heavy pots or pushing a wheelbarrow. It's essential to learn proper lifting techniques to minimize back strain. If soreness occurs, a hot or cold pad can be a remedy.3
We've got plenty of ideas and tips to get you started, whether you want to try a new project, like growing a moon garden or edible flowers, or simply refresh your container gardens.
gardening with orange gloves pruning rose bush
Credit: Kelli Jo Emanuel / BHG
