Hey everyone! I'm 25 and have never actually planted anything before. My family hasn't done it either, so I'm really starting from scratch here. I have a nice yard in Arizona where I want to put in some potted plants like aloe and other heat-resistant varieties. I'd also love to try growing some flowers. What's a good resource or book you'd recommend to learn about nursery plants, soil, composting, watering, and all that good stuff?
4 Answers
I say start with something simple like a tomato or zucchini plant. They’re easy to grow and do well in a lot of climates, including yours! Once you get the hang of it, you can branch out to other plants.
Don’t stress too much about getting it perfect! I’ve been at it for over 30 years, and I still face successes and failures every season. It’s a fantastic way to chill out and enjoy nature. Plus, if you’re looking for a great gardening book, check out "The Well-Tended Perennial Garden" by Tracy Disabato Aust. It has great tips on many popular plants.
Have you checked out your local agricultural extension program? Every state has one, and in Arizona, it’s run by the University of Arizona. They offer great resources for new gardeners and have a whole page dedicated to building your garden that could really help you get started! Here’s the link: [Building Your Garden](https://extension.arizona.edu/topics/building-your-garden). This is where I learned a lot when I started!
Just dive in! Research the plants you’re interested in to understand their light and water needs. Remember, it’s totally normal to have a few plants die; it happens to everyone! Think of it like running a hotel—some guests love it and stay, others check out early. And here’s a useful article on caring for aloe in Arizona: [Growing Aloe Outdoors](https://gardenerspath.com/plants/succulents/grow-aloe-outdoors/). Good luck!