Spring Gardening Tips
BY JULIA ADAMS
Choose plants strategically.
Websites such as Proven Winners, Southern Living, and Birmingham Home and Garden have
suggestions for ideal plants in your area, for your hardiness zone, and your planting
plan and desire.
Your State Extension Service, ACES, has information on plants, planting guides, tips,
news and more. The ACES website can help you choose hardy plants, native plants,
or whatever is appropriate for your yard and your needs.
Make maintenance easier.
Research low-maintenance garden plans and plants to reduce the need for care: crevice
gardens, grass-alternative lawns, mulch open areas, planting natives, perennials, shrubs, drought
tolerant plants, etc.
Grow what excites you.
Grow what you find useful and interesting. This could be pollinator plants, a cut flower
garden, natives, vegetables or herbs, bonsai, etc. When you find excitement in your plants, you have more cause for care and pride in what you create and nurture.