The #1 Gardening Mistake You Don’t Want to Make
- Sara Rubens
- Mar 20
- 2 min read
Spring is just around the corner, and I know you’re itching to get your hands in the dirt.
But before you plant a single thing, let’s talk about one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make this time of year—one that could set your plants (and your patience) up for failure.
The #1 Gardening Mistake You Don’t Want to Make
It happens every year: planting too soon.
I get it.
The sun is shining, the seed packets are calling your name, and the garden beds are practically begging for new life.
But before you dive in, remember:
🌱 Soil needs time to warm up.
Many plants—especially tomatoes, peppers, and squash—won’t thrive in cold soil, no matter how eager you are.
🌱 Late frosts are sneaky.
One unexpected cold snap could wipe out your hard work overnight.
🌱 Rushing can lead to weak plants.
Seeds started in cold, compacted soil struggle to grow strong roots, leading to stunted plants later in the season.
So, how do you know when it’s actually time to plant?
Your Spring Readiness Checklist
Before putting anything in the ground, make sure you’ve checked these boxes:
✅ Test Your Soil Temperature
Most veggies thrive at 50°F (10°C) or higher. Use a soil thermometer or stick your hand in—if it feels ice-cold, it’s too soon.
✅ Watch the Forecast
Wait until nighttime temps consistently stay above 50°F (10°C) to avoid frost damage.
✅ Prepare Your Soil
Winter compacted your garden beds, so loosen the soil, add compost, and refresh nutrients before planting.
✅ Harden Off Seedlings
If you’ve been growing plants indoors, gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions over a week to prevent shock.
If your soil is still cool but you’re eager to plant, stick to hardy greens, onions, peas, and radishes, which can handle early spring conditions.
Following these steps ensures that when you do plant, your garden is truly ready to grow.
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