Get your garden ready before spring comes

HOUSTON – Don’t have a green thumb? Don’t worry, you can get your garden looking great now!

Jen McDonald, co-owner of Garden Girls, shares tips on reviving those brown and wilted plants into a beautiful, blooming garden and what to plant for spring.

Garden Girls specializes in kitchen garden design, installation, and education for newbie Houston gardeners.

Post-freeze tips:

“Leaf burn and discoloration of tissue don’t mean that the plant is dead. Do not cut! If we have another freeze, the damaged area will help protect the rest of the plant. If you see anything brown, mushy, or slimy, remove it completely,” she said.

What to plant now:

“We’re treading lightly with plantings. I’m recommending to all of our gardeners to plant arugula, lettuce, and radish by seed because they are ready for harvest in as little as 30 days.,” said McDonald.

*Transplants: Swiss chard, kale, strawberries.

Herbs: Cilantro, rosemary, thyme, oregano, parsley, chives

Flowers: Pansies, violas, snapdragons, and dianthus.

Looking ahead :

“February is the most exciting time for gardeners!! We reserve the last two weeks of the month to plant spring gardens. Tomatoes by transplant go in by March 1st in order to finish producing by the hottest point in summer. Save space in your garden for pepper, okra, cucumber, and eggplant,” she said.

If you’d like to connect with McDonald, check out her website here.


About the Authors

Beatriz is a producer for Houston life. She’s a dog mom who enjoys traveling and eating her way through new cities and cultures.

Petite powerhouse with a love for TV, especially sci-fi and drama. Proud aunt to two nieces and one nephew. Favorite quote: “Not all those who wander are lost.” Embracing life’s adventures, one episode at a time.

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