The Dirt

Why These Plants? The Design Thinking Behind Your Free Pollinator Blueprint
If you have not grabbed it yet, download the free pollinator garden blueprint here. It is 100% free, no strings attached. Every plant in the free pollinator garden blueprint is there for a reason. Nothing was chosen because it looked good in a catalog photo or because it was on sale at the garden center. Each plant earned its spot based on bloom time, pollinator value, hardiness across Zones 4 through 8, and how well it plays with the other plants around it. Here is a look at the thinking... Read more...
How to Care for Your New Pollinator Garden (From Planting Day Through the Seasons)
You downloaded the free pollinator garden blueprint. Now what? Here is everything you need to know to get it in the ground and keep it thriving, from your first weekend through the seasons ahead.If you have not grabbed it yet, download the free pollinator garden blueprint here. It is 100% free, no strings attached.Before You Plant: Prep the BedA little prep work goes a long way. Start by clearing the area of existing grass, weeds, and debris. If you are converting a section of lawn, the easiest method is to... Read more...
How to Read a Plant Tag
How to Read a Plant Tag
Plant tags are packed with useful info — if you know how to read them. Here's what sun, water, zone, spacing, and mature size actually mean, and the mistakes most... Read more...
When to Plant What
When to Plant What
Perennials and shrubs don't all go in the ground at the same time. This guide breaks down what to plant in early spring, late spring, summer, and fall — plus... Read more...
Knowing Your Growing Zone
Knowing Your Growing Zone
You've seen "Zones 5-9" on a plant tag, but what does that actually mean? Here's a plain-English guide to USDA hardiness zones — what they measure, what they miss, and... Read more...
How Much Mulch Do You Actually Need (And How to Use It Right)
How Much Mulch Do You Actually Need (And How to Use It Right)
Mulch does more than look nice — it suppresses weeds, holds moisture, and protects roots. But too much can hurt your plants. Here's how deep to go, what type to... Read more...
How to Figure Out Your Soil Type (And Why It Matters)
How to Figure Out Your Soil Type (And Why It Matters)
Sandy, clay, or somewhere in between? Your soil type affects everything from watering to plant selection. Here's a simple mason jar test you can do at home to find out... Read more...
How to Plant a Tree (So It Actually Survives)
How to Plant a Tree (So It Actually Survives)
A well-planted tree will be in your yard for decades. A poorly planted one might not survive the summer. Here's the right way to do it — from digging the... Read more...
Watering 101 (How to Water Your Garden Without Overthinking It)
Watering 101 (How to Water Your Garden Without Overthinking It)
Watering is the number one thing new gardeners get wrong. Learn the golden rule (deep and infrequent), how much is enough, and the common mistakes that stress your plants. Read more...
Your First Year Garden Will Look Bare — and That's Normal
Your First Year Garden Will Look Bare — and That's Normal
Your new garden looks bare. That's completely normal. Here's what's actually happening underground, what to expect month by month, and why year two is when the magic starts. Read more...
How to Plant Perennials
How to Plant Perennials
Planting perennials isn't complicated, but a few small steps make the difference between a plant that thrives and one that struggles. Here's the beginner-friendly, step-by-step process. Read more...
How to Shop at a Nursery Without Getting Overwhelmed
How to Shop at a Nursery Without Getting Overwhelmed
Walking into a nursery for the first time can feel overwhelming. Here's how to shop with confidence — what to look for, what to skip, and how to use your... Read more...