Frequently Asked Questions and Answers From the BGGC Facebook Community
Curious about the ins and outs of spring gardening? We have compiled the most frequently asked questions on our Facebook community, with answers collated from experienced contributors to help you navigate your gardening journey with confidence.
If you haven’t already joined the BGGC Facebook community, you’re missing out on plant sisterhood and support like no other. Come on in, it’s warm over here!
Let’s dive in:
1. What are the best vegetables to grow in April?
In April, gardeners can start planting peas, lettuce, carrots, beets, kale, radishes and other cool-season crops. They can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors for later transplanting.
Check out our list of spring vegetables and other plants you can start in April and May.
2. How can I protect my plants from late frosts?
If you started your plants outdoors, consider using frost protection like row covers, lightweight fabric or plastic sheets to cover your plants overnight. If your plants are still indoors, they are fine so far as they get enough warmth.
Monitor the weather forecast in your area so you can transplant only after the first frost has passed.
You can also go for frost-tolerant plant varieties that can survive the unexpected cold weather before it goes fully warm.
3. I started my nursery in solo cups and planted multiple seeds. When should I separate them?
Separate your seedlings when they have 2 sets of true leaves. At this stage they’re strong enough to withstand the transplanting process and take off in individual pots.
4. When transferring my seedlings to containers, should I add anything other than potting soil?
Top up your potting soil with compost or fertilizer to provide essential nutrients they need to thrive in containers. Compost also encourages beneficial micro and macroorganisms to develop in the soil and improves soil structure, promoting overall plant health and vigor.
Here’s a handy guide on how you can start composting at home using kitchen scraps.
5. What herbs are ideal for starting in spring in USDA zones 3-10?
Spring is an excellent time to start growing basil, cilantro, parsley, chives, and dill in USDA zones 3-10.
Here’s our guide on growing herbs in containers, and if you don’t have outdoor garden space, we have also covered how to grow herbs indoors.
6. How can I successfully grow watermelon seedlings in a container?
To get healthy watermelons in containers, choose a large, deep container with lots of drainage holes, rich soil amended with compost and lots of sunlight. Grow your watermelons successfully in containers with our handy guide.
7. What is the best soil preparation for potatoes?
Potatoes thrive in loose, well-draining soil rich with organic matter. Before you start planting, amend the soil with layers of compost or aged manure.
The best start for any plant is healthy soil. If you haven’t already prepared your soil for spring planting, here’s our guide on how to refresh your old garden soil for a new crop.
8. What are some effective pest control methods for outdoor container gardens?
There are many approaches to pest control in your garden. First, you can apply cultural practices like companion planting to deter pests naturally. You can also add physical barriers like netting to protect them. Additionally, introducing beneficial insects can manage pests and minimize the impact on the environment.
9. How can I know my USDA zone?
USDA zones are gardening zones assigned to the US and Canada, grouped according to climate.Finding your USDA zone is crucial for understanding your region's climate and selecting appropriate plants. You can easily find your USDA zone by using online zone finders like this one.
Here’s our detailed explanation of what USDA or gardening zones mean and a handy map to find yours.
Don’t be discouraged if you are in a colder USDA zone, you can start your garden indoors with grow lights until it’s warmer. To succeed in your USDA zone, plant native specimens and adapt your garden for the best conditions in your climate.
What other questions do you have about your garden this season? Join the BGGC Facebook community or drop a comment below.
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