- dakotavandyke
Personalize Your FoodTidings With A Garden
I don't know about you, but I have always dreamed of being a successful gardener. Imagine tasting the best version of your favorite fruit or vegetable, that you grew YOURSELF, and getting to show everyone that you are finally cable of keeping a plant alive for more than 2 weeks. That is my kind of dream; finally entering my plant era.
Here are just a *few* simple gardening tips to help your garden this spring, or the motivation that finally gets you to start one!

What Zone Are You In?
Okay, so it makes sense that someone in North Dakota is gonna have a pretty different garden than I would have here, in Arizona. That means in order to properly know what's best to grow in YOUR garden, you need to know what "Plant Hardiness Zone" you're in; you can find that out here!
Start Some Seeds Inside!
So if you know nothing about gardening ... like me, then it would be safe to assume gardens are outside, right? But because March and April like to be funky with the weather, it's possible to start some warmer-temp seeds indoors while the risk for frost is high, and then transfer them outdoors when the weather is more consistent! Some examples may be kale, broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, and tomatoes. Some cooler seeds that you can usually start right outside can be arugula, lettuce, spinach, and peas. But remember, it can change based on what zone you are in!
If you're feeling chatty, go ask the sweet grandpa in the seed section at Home Depot; I'm certain he would love to let you know what your best options are right now :)
Start Simple & Make It Enjoyable
Seems obvious, but start simple and with what you actually like! With any activity, if you aren't motivated to get to the end result, you probably won't put as much effort in.
Make sure you create a space that's energy-filling, making gardening an activity that you can really enjoy and not see as a chore. Pick your family's favorite veggies, get everyone involved, and everyone will be excited about the harvest!
You can also ease into gardening by doing window-seal sprouts and herbs! This is perfect for someone who doesn't have a ton of time or space while getting to add some fresh ingredients to recipes. Check out more info on indoor gardening here!
Alright, so if you've made it this far and I've convinced you to learn more ... here's a guide created by someone much more qualified on how to start a garden for beginners!
Don't Keep The Goods To Yourself!
You reap what you sow ... literally. The best part of hard work is seeing it pay off and sharing the victory with others! Nothing says love like a fresh, homemade, (or homegrown ;) meal.
Find a recipe that incorporates the produce that YOU grew for your next FoodTiding, and keep finding ways to care for others!