Get Your Garden Ready for 2025: A Fun & Local Guide

Spring is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to get your hands dirty—literally! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a total newbie, preparing now will set you up for a thriving, bountiful garden this year. Plus, with Portland’s amazing local resources like Growers Outlet, you can find everything you need to get started right in your own backyard. So let’s dig in and make your garden dreams a reality!

1. Plan Like a Pro

Before you grab your gardening gloves, take a step back and plan your garden space.

• Which areas get the most sunlight? Which spots are shadier?
• What do you want to grow? Flowers, veggies, herbs—or all of the above?
• Sketch a simple layout to maximize space and ensure each plant gets the love it deserves.

2. Soil: The Secret to Success

Great gardens start from the ground up—literally!

• Head over to Growers Outlet to grab locally sourced compost and organic soil amendments.
• Test your soil’s pH to ensure it has the right balance of nutrients.
• Add mulch to retain moisture, block weeds, and keep your plants happy!

3. Shop Local for the Best Seeds & Plants

Skip the big-box stores and support local businesses instead!

• Visit Portland Nursery for an incredible selection of seeds and starts.
• Check out the Montavilla Farmers Market for fresh plant varieties and expert advice.
• Stop by Growers Outlet for seasonal seedlings, garden supplies, and friendly faces who can help you pick the perfect plants for your space.

4. Get a Head Start with Indoor Seed Starting

Want fresh tomatoes before summer? Start your seeds indoors now!

• Use seed trays with nutrient-rich soil.
• Place them in a sunny window or use grow lights.
• Keep soil moist and warm, then transplant when the weather warms up.

5. Gear Up with the Right Tools

A gardener is only as good as their tools! Make sure you have:

• Sharp pruners
• A sturdy trowel
• A comfy pair of gloves
• Watering cans or drip irrigation for easy hydration

Local garden centers like Portland Homestead Supply Co. have high-quality tools that last for seasons to come.

6. Outsmart Pests & Weeds

Nobody likes uninvited guests—especially in the garden!

• Plant marigolds and basil to naturally repel pests.
• Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or ladybugs.
• Mulch early to keep weeds from taking over.

7. Stay Water-Wise

Portland summers can be unpredictable, so it’s smart to have an efficient watering plan.

• Consider setting up rain barrels to collect free water from those rainy spring days.
• Use soaker hoses to water plants efficiently and reduce waste.
• Water in the early morning to prevent evaporation and keep plants hydrated all day long.

8. Extend Your Harvest

Want to enjoy fresh produce all season long? Try succession planting!

• Plant crops like lettuce, carrots, and radishes in stages for a continuous harvest.
• Rotate crops each year to keep soil nutrients balanced.
• Preserve your bounty by learning to can, pickle, or freeze your extra veggies!

9. Keep a Garden Journal

Record your wins, losses, and surprises!

• Track planting dates, weather conditions, and what grew best.
• Write down tips you learn from fellow gardeners.
• Use garden-planning apps or go old-school with a notebook.

10. Most Importantly… Have Fun!

Gardening is about more than just the harvest—it’s about enjoying the process. Share the experience with family, friends, or neighbors. Visit your local farmer’s markets, experiment with new plants, and watch your little oasis flourish.

By shopping locally and planning ahead, you’ll be set up for the best garden ever in 2025! Want to find a home with the perfect backyard for your dream garden? Contact Dirks Realty Group today—we’ll help you find the perfect space to grow!