There’s something about early spring that feels like a clean slate—a season full of possibilities, and the perfect time to dream, dig, and plant something new. Whether you're just starting out or simply refreshing your space, we’ve gathered ideas to help you make the most of the season—from easy flowers that practically grow themselves to simple design tips, smart mulching advice, and inspiring garden stories that remind us why we love getting our hands dirty. Cheers to a fresh spring start!
Spring Into Gardening with These 21 Easy Flowers
From cheerful pansies to bold sunflowers, these 21 beginner-friendly blooms are practically foolproof. From cheerful zinnias to carefree coneflowers, these beauties practically grow themselves!
Picked your flowers? Perfect. Now let’s give them a garden that shows them off. This simple guide takes the guesswork out of flower garden design and covers the essentials: knowing your site, picking the right palette, and arranging your plants for maximum impact. With just a little planning, you’ll be on your way to a colorful garden in no time.
Big Color, Fast Growth, and a Little More Privacy
Want to fill those empty spots fast? These quick-growing annuals, perennials, and shrubs are perfect for adding vibrant color, instant curb appeal, and even a bit of backyard privacy. Whether you're planting for bold blooms or building a living screen, this guide will help you grow a beautiful, full garden—without the wait. Pictured: Señorita Rosalita® spider flower and Supertunia® Bordeaux™ petunia from Proven Winners.
Starting March 29, save on beautifully designed self-watering containers that make plant care a breeze. AquaPots Lite styles are up to 25% off, and classic ceramic AquaPots are just $150—plus, you’ll get a free bag of premium potting soil with every purchase! Perfect for pairing with Proven Winners' ready-made container gardens.
Pick out your favorites and get ready to order starting Sunday, 3/29.
Readers' Gardens:
Villaleigh—A Garden Grown from Hope
This reader-submitted garden comes to us from New Zealand, where one gardener turned three acres into a vibrant, living sanctuary during her family's cancer journey. With layers of texture, joyful bursts of color, and thoughtful plant pairings, Villaleigh is a powerful reminder of how gardens can support us through life’s most difficult seasons.
"Two Ginkgo trees lead the eye as you look out from the front verandah of the house, with the path veering off to the right, as I love to add some mystery and not give all the secrets of the garden away at once." — Amy Roberts
Do you have a garden with a story to tell?
Whether it's a place of peace, a pollinator paradise, or a creative solution to a tricky spot, we’d love to hear about it. Your garden could inspire and connect with fellow readers—just like Villaleigh. Learn how to share your garden's story with us and see what others have shared.
Mulch Madness: Tips for a Heathier, Prettier Yard
Spring is one of the best times to mulch your garden—it helps lock in moisture before summer heat sets in, suppresses early weeds, and gives your beds a clean, finished look. But the how, when, and what of mulching really matter. This helpful guide walks you through it all—from prepping your beds to picking the right mulch for every part of your landscape. Plus, there’s a built-in mulch calculator so you can get your numbers right—no guesswork, no leftovers.
Not sure which mulch is best? Get the scoop on the different types.
New Plant of the Week:
Funyella® Clematis
Funyella® clematis is climbing to new heights with its unique bell-shaped blooms in sunny yellow and blush pink, set off by burgundy stems and a refreshing grapefruit scent. This isn’t a plant that just grows—it mingles, weaving its way through whatever’s nearby. Let it twirl through shrubs, wrap around a post, or drape over a pergola for effortless charm. Even better? This easygoing climber blooms on old wood from spring to midsummer, so no annual pruning is required. Just let it do its thing while you sit back and enjoy the show! Order online or check you local independent garden center! Zones 4-9, part shade to sun.
If your "winter garden body" isn't quite ready for spring planting (like mine!), check out this video from our friend Heather of Here She Grows. She's put together a set of exercises and tips that are geared to get our bodies ready for the busy gardening season ahead. While you're there, check out some of her great gardening videos as well and give her a follow on Instagram too!!
Happy gardening & cheers to a healthy spring!
—Linda
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