Spring Garden Planning: From Seeds to Layout

By Robin Maitland · October 7, 2026

Winter Is Planning Season

The most productive spring gardens are planned in winter. A well-thought-out plan prevents impulse purchases, maximizes space, and ensures continuous harvests.

Step 1: Review Last Year's Performance

Which varieties produced abundantly? Which struggled? Any recurring pest or disease issues? Take notes now while memories are fresh.

Step 2: Select Varieties Wisely

Grow what you eat: If nobody eats beets, don't grow them
Grow what's expensive: Fresh herbs, salad greens, heirloom tomatoes
Grow what tastes better fresh: Peas, sweet corn, strawberries

Prioritize disease-resistant cultivars — VFN for tomatoes, powdery mildew resistance for cucurbits.

Step 3: Sketch Your Layout

Draw beds to scale. Consider sun exposure (6+ hours for fruiting crops, 3–4 for leafy greens), spacing, and companion planting. Include pathways and trellises.