Subscribe and receive email notifications of new blog posts.
RSS Feed
- 2026 | 10 Posts
- 2025 | 52 Posts
- 2024 | 47 Posts
- 2023 | 45 Posts
- 2022 | 50 Posts
- 2021 | 54 Posts
- 2020 | 49 Posts
- 2019 | 39 Posts
- 2018 | 30 Posts
18
Twin Cities: Watch Your Garden Grow
Many people looking at Minneapolis homes for sale are excited about getting an opportunity to personalize their home and yard to make it truly their own. Just one of the reasons a yard is on the top of almost every buyer's list is gardening. It's a popular hobby and an excellent way to add beauty and function to your outdoor space.
-
Choose the type of garden
Decide whether you want an herb, vegetable, or flower garden. If the idea of having fresh herbs or vegetables to cook with excites you, opt for those. If you would rather have some color in the yard or don't have enough sun for the vegetables you want, opt for flowers instead. Do you want your garden to bed to be directly in the ground, raised bed, or a container garden? Herb gardens can often be planted in smaller spaces or containers if that is a better option for you. You'll also want to consider the maintenance and space requirements as well. -
Decide where to put your garden
You'll want to know where your plants will thrive so observe your yard at different times of day and note which spots get full sun, partial sun, or shade. Also, look out for any areas that might be too wet. Plants have different light and moisture requirements. Most vegetables and many flowers need at least 5 hours of direct sun.
Also keep in mind that you'll need to access the garden for weeding, watering, and harvesting. So you won't want to situate it anywhere you can ignore it. You'll also want to avoid areas where kids, pets, or wildlife could easily destroy plants. -
Improve your soil
Once you have a good spot, you'll have to dig out a bed. You could just throw plants or seeds out there and see what happens, but you'll have much better luck if you test the soil first. Adding what your soil needs will make for hardier, healthier plants. If you don't get a soil test, start by adding organic matter like dead leaves and compost, work it into the soil, and let the earthworms do their job. -
Pick the right plants
First, find something that works for your planting zone. For Minnesota, that's zones 3 and 4. You'll want to know whether to plant seeds directly in the garden or purchase young plants for transplanting. You may want to start plants indoors then move them outside when they're bigger and the danger of frost has passed. You'll also need to consider the light and moisture conditions in your yard. Plants should have similar light and moisture requirements. -
Mulch
Especially for flower beds, mulch is a good idea. Not only does it give your flower bed a more finished look, but it will help keep weeds out and moisture in. -
Keep up with maintenance
Weeding and watering need to be done regularly. You also may need to add plant food or perform pest control. Make sure to add support for tall or climbing plants. -
Enjoy your garden
Harvest vegetables promptly when they're ready to encourage what's left to keep growing. Cook an amazing meal or fill a vase with colorful flowers to brighten your home and be proud of your accomplishments!
Gardening is a rewarding hobby and wonderful way to personalize your new home, inside or out. There are Saint Paul homes for sale with plenty of space for gardening, outdoor living, or anything else you might have planned. If you're looking for a new home, Counselor Realty can help. Contact us today to get started.