Growing Guides

Practical, trustworthy advice written by our horticulturists. A selection is free for everyone — members unlock the full library of more than 1,200 guides.

Free

Composting basics

The cheapest way to better soil — what to add, how to build a heap, and how to fix it when it sulks.

Free

Starting a vegetable patch

From bare ground to first harvest — choosing a spot, prepping soil, and the easiest crops to begin with.

Free

Pollinator-friendly gardens

Bring bees and butterflies to any garden with the right plants and a slightly more relaxed approach.

Members

Overwintering tender plants

Lifting, storing, and protecting dahlias, salvias, and pelargoniums — with a month-by-month checklist.

Members

Soil testing and improvement

A simple home test for texture and pH, and exactly what to add to fix clay, sand, or the wrong acidity.

Members

Integrated pest management

A calmer way to handle pests — prevention, natural predators, and when to step in without harming bees.