Spring is the perfect time to get started on growing a garden, although planning should take place before the spring months. So once you have finished the beginning planning stages of your plan, follow these 6 easy steps from your Beverly Wilshire Hotel floral partner, The Empty Vase, and begin the exciting adventure of growing your own home garden.

Have a General Idea Is this garden going to feature flowers or vegetables? What kind of plants are you hoping to grow? Which colors and tones do you want your blooms to pop up in? These are all questions you should ask yourself before you begin digging your garden. Pick your Plants If you already know exactly what plants you want, that's great! If you don't, head over to the closest garden center and see what wows you. Just make sure the seeds you choose are adapted to your climate and appropriate for the season.

Choose a Spot Choosing a place for your garden is an essential step in the overall process. You'll want a location that matches the needs of the plants you will be growing. For example, will you need a lot of sun or shade? How much water will your garden need? Etc. Help the Soil Remove any grass or weeds from the location you have chosen, then see what condition the soil is in underneath. If needed, add a 3-inch layer of compost (dried grass, dead leaves, manure) and mix it in with the natural earth underneath.

Start Planting If you're using seeds, bury several small holes, 6-12 inches deep and begin dispersing your seeds throughout. Make sure not to place them too close to one another, as you don't want your plants competing for resources. If you are planting pre-potted plants, carefully remove them from their containers, break up the roots and place them in the ground. Finish up by filling in any remaining space with soil. Water and Mulch Water your seedlings daily while they're in the beginning stages, once they have grown you can cut back on the watering, depending on the type of plant. To keep water in and weeds out, cover the surrounding soil with about 2 inches of mulch and watch your garden grow!





