Planning a Summer Garden Day #5: Choosing plants you will use and enjoy.

Here are a few thoughts to help you choose your plants wisely.

Choose plants appropriate to your conditions and location.

If you only have shady areas then you need to plant shade loving plants! If you have a very dry sunny spot...try roses. Just be sure to read the recommendations for the plants you choose before you buy. Plan your garden out keeping the plants in mind. Consider your location also. What plants thrive in your plant zone? How much sun do they need? What soil do they prefer? Try to choose plants that will do well where you are placing them.

Consider themes for your garden.

One part of my yard will be a Mary garden. This is a garden in honor of Mary, Mother of Jesus. Many plants are named after her and there is a long tradition of this. So all the plants in this part of my garden will be selected with symbolism for her. A themed garden can be fun. What themes can you think of?

Make your choices purposeful. 

First and foremost, choose plants that you plan to use! What interests do you have that will make your garden specific to you? Why are you gardening?  Do you love bouquets? Then select plants for cutting and using in flower arrangement.  Do you like pressing flowers and crafts? Plant those that you can dry. Are you into herbal medicine? Perhaps you would like a herb garden. First and foremost, choose plants that you plan to use! Then add things to it you love and have an interest in. If you love nature study, and I am sure if you are reading this blog you do, then perhaps add a bird bath and plant flowers that attract birds and butterflies in your area. Then place benches where you like for observation.

Gardens for food.

Most commonly, we want our gardens to produce food. Vegetables can add both good health and taste to our tables. Think about the recipes you use and what you cook and eat often. Choose the plants you know you will eat and use.  Then perhaps choose a few new foods that you haven't tried before. For example last year I tried tomatillos and created a new recipe. This year I am trying swiss shard and some purples tomatillos! So it's also good to try something new.

Coming Next: Planning out your plant placement. 

  Giving you a check list you can utilize and you prepare to plant.
This 10 day series includes:

1. Getting Inspired
2. How to Start Box Gardening
3. Prepare Your Soil
4. Starting Seeds
5. Choose Plants You Will Use and Enjoy!
6. Planning Out Your Plant Placement
7. Tomatoes, Peppers, and Cucumbers
8. Favorite Flowers and Herbs
9. Tools and Maintenance
10. When to Begin Planting

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