Thinning seedlings is a crucial step in gardening that many beginners overlook or find intimidating. It’s an essential practice to give your plants the space they need to grow strong, healthy, and productive. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about thinning seedlings, from understanding their growth stages to thinning techniques…
Introduction Radishes are one of the fastest-growing and most rewarding vegetables you can grow in a suburban Zone 9 garden. With some varieties ready to harvest in as little as 25 days, radishes are perfect for quick, successive plantings throughout the cool months of winter and early spring. Their small size and adaptability make them…
Introduction Carrots are a beloved cool-season vegetable, prized for their sweet flavor, vibrant colors, and versatility in the kitchen. In Zone 9, winter and early spring provide the perfect growing conditions for carrots, as they thrive in mild temperatures and cooler soil. Whether you’re growing in raised beds, containers, or in-ground gardens, carrots are an…
Introduction Spinach is a nutrient-packed, cool-season vegetable that thrives in the mild winters of Zone 9. With its fast growth and versatility in the garden, spinach is a perfect choice for both new and experienced gardeners. Its compact size makes it ideal for suburban yards, raised beds, or containers, and its tolerance for light frosts…
Introduction There’s something magical about planting bulbs in the cooler months, knowing they’ll sleep beneath the soil and wake up to greet spring with vibrant blooms. Gardening in warmer climates like Zone 9 gives you the unique opportunity to extend your growing season, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Without freezing…
Unearth the rewards of seed starting indoors and watch your garden thrive!
Did you know that in Southern California, December soil temperatures are still warm enough to plant cool-season annuals and even strawberries1? This fact shows us the special chance we have to get our tropical gardens ready in winter. Let’s look at how to care for our gardens during this important time. Having a list of…
Did you know that avid gardeners can collect a lot of tools over time1? But, for beginners, gardening doesn’t have to be complicated. You can start your gardening journey with just five key tools. Experts say you might need up to 12 tools to begin2. But, I’ve learned that quality is more important than how…