New to Gardening?

Gardening can be fustrating... no doubt about it.  But with a little bit of effort and a lot of sweat it can be one of the most rewarding endeavors you'll have in life.  

Although books are a great source of information, the internet, a local nursery,  friends/neighbors and the local extension office are great sources of  help as well.

If  you're new to gardening - start slow and easy.

Look around you.  What is growing well in your neighbors yards?  Are your conditions similar?  

Join a local  garden club - people that grow things tend to be kind hearted souls.  Usually there are different skill levels and most people are happy to share their experiences.

Help a Senior Citizen (a family  friend or perhaps an elderly neighbor) with their garden work. Chances are you'll make a new friend and the knowledge you can gain will be priceless.

Be realistic about how much time you'll want to spend in your garden.  In Northern Virginia roses take a lot of time and effort to grow but you can pop daylilies almost anywhere and have them flourish with no effort whatsoever.  So do a least a  little bit of research to know what you're up against.  

Be mindful that just because someone works at a nursery doesn't make them an expert.  I've been told on more than one occasion completely wrong information.  A nursery with knowledgeable personnel is worth it's weight in gold (I love, love, love English Country Gardens near my home).