By: Holly Mason
Determine your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone. This will help determine the climate you live in and when to start your garden. North Carolinians are lucky to have a relatively mild climate zone, perfect for growing a wide variety of plants. A detailed map of North Carolina zones can be found at: http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/planting-zones/north-carolina-planting-zones.htm.
Pick your produce. In North Carolina, some good choices for a spring/summer garden include tomatoes, zucchini, squash, bell peppers, and hot peppers. Choosing plants that have similar watering and sunlight requirements will greatly lighten your workload. Many herbs, such as basil and flat leaf parsley, also grow well in summer weather.
Choose a planting method. Some plants, such as tomatoes and various herbs, can be grown in pots. Alternative methods include planting small plants in cartons and cut up water bottles. Digging a garden will be a lot more labor intensive and permanent but can lead to better results. This quick guide explains the steps to creating a garden space itself: http://www.bhg.com/gardening/yard/garden-care/building-a-new-garden/
Choose a location. A little research will let you know what crops need to be in sunlight (direct or indirect) or shaded areas. Keep gardens away from water pipes and sprinklers. If you are planting in pots, elevate the container if you have pets or small children around.
Choose a plant type. Many seeds can be germinated at home in a loosely covered container in a well-lit area (more on that here: http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/cheap-seed-starting-how-to-germinate-seeds-at-home.htm) and later transplanted into pots and then a garden. This cheap method will take weeks, even months more than buying starter plants. Stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, Walmart and some farmers’ markets have starter plants costing only a few dollars.
Get planting! Choose a day and set your mind to planting your garden. Though it is an extensive project, growing your own plants, fruits or vegetables is extremely rewarding. Remember, patience and research are key to a successful garden.
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