Advertise on podcast: The Beginner's Garden with Jill McSheehy

Struggling with pests or poor pollination in your garden? Wondering how to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects naturally? In this episode, you'll learn simple, practical ways to support pollinators and grow a healthier vegetable garden. I'm coming to you from Disney World's Epcot Flower & Garden Festival, where I had the chance to talk with entomologist Morgan Bell at Butterfly Landing. She shares how pollinators like bees, butterflies, and even wasps play a vital role in your garden ecosystem—and how the small choices you make can have a big impact. We talk about how to attract pollinators, why caterpillars aren't always a bad thing, and what you can do right now to create a garden that supports both productivity and biodiversity. If you've ever wondered how to balance growing food with supporting nature, this episode will give you a clear place to start. Key Takeaways Why pollinators are essential for fruit and vegetable production The difference between host plants and nectar plants How to attract more bees and butterflies naturally Simple ways to support pollinators without extra work Why "messy" gardening can actually improve your harvest Resource Links Free Resources: The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault: http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads Connect with Me: Newsletter (Friday emails): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebeginnersgarden Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/podcast Sponsors for This Episode Garden in Minutes An easy-to-use watering system that delivers consistent moisture right at the soil level—perfect for simplifying your garden routine. Use code Jill for 7% off your order: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes (Discount subject to change.) Cross Country Nurseries An organic, sustainable nursery specializing in unique pepper varieties, along with tomatoes, herbs, and more—shipped nationwide at the perfect time for your growing zone. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase.

Struggling to know when to plant tomatoes without risking frost? Wondering how deep to plant or what actually matters on planting day? In this episode, you'll learn a step-by-step tomato planting process so you can start strong and grow a healthy harvest. Tomato planting day can feel exciting… and a little uncertain. In this episode, I walk you through exactly how I decide when it's safe to plant, how I prep my planting holes, and what I do right after planting to give my tomatoes the best start possible. Free Download: Tomato Diseases Guide Quickly identify common tomato problems and learn what to do next so you can protect your harvest. 👉 http://journeywithjill.net/lazy-gardeners-guide Key Takeaways How to decide the right time to plant tomatoes What nighttime temperatures really matter How deep to plant tomatoes for stronger roots How spacing impacts airflow and disease What (if anything) to add to the planting hole Resource Links Tomato Diseases Guide (free): http://journeywithjill.net/lazy-gardeners-guide Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Complete Garden Planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsor for This Episode Cozy Earth Premium bedding and loungewear designed for comfort and better sleep. Use code JILL for a special discount. 👉 http://cozyearth.com Garden in Minutes An easy-to-install garden irrigation system that saves time and ensures consistent watering. Use code Jill for 7% off. 👉 http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Struggling to figure out what your garden soil actually needs? Confused by compost, topsoil, and raised bed mixes? In this episode, you'll learn simple, practical soil basics to grow healthier plants and improve your garden naturally. Dream to Garden (Now Open!) My step-by-step garden planning course with optional monthly coaching calls to help you plan and grow with confidence. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/dreamtogarden  Key Takeaways Understand the difference between topsoil, compost, and raised bed soil Learn how to build healthy soil for raised beds or in-ground gardens Know how and when to add compost for best results Avoid common mistakes when buying bagged soil Discover why feeding your soil matters more than feeding plants Resource Links Dream to Garden https://journeywithjill.net/dreamtogarden  The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault (free): http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Complete Garden Planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsors for This Episode  Cross Country Nursery A trusted source for high-quality plants, especially if you're looking to expand your garden with reliable varieties. 👉 http://www.chileplants.com/jill  Garden in Minutes An easy irrigation system that helps you water your garden efficiently without the guesswork. Use code Jill for 7% off: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Feeling unsure about companion planting when you're actually standing in your garden? You're not alone. It's one thing to read charts, but another to decide what goes where in real time. In this episode, you'll learn how companion planting really works, including spacing, timing, and practical garden layout strategies that make sense. Free download: Companion Planting for Pest Control A simple, practical guide to pairing plants that help naturally reduce pests. 👉 http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest If companion planting has ever felt confusing or overly complicated, this episode will walk you through step-by-step principles you can actually use in your garden today. Resource Links Companion Planting for Pest Control (free): http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest Beneficial insects episode: https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/235-attracting-beneficial-bugs-to-your-garden-with-jessica-walliser Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Sponsor(s) for this Episode Garden in Minutes – Simplify your irrigation setup with an easy-to-install system designed for raised beds. Get 7% off with code Jill: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes Cozy Earth – Premium bedding and loungewear designed for comfort and better sleep. Use code JILL for a special discount: https://cozyearth.com Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  

Struggling with poor potato harvests or slow growth? You're not alone. In this episode, you'll learn how to plant potatoes step-by-step for stronger plants and better yields. From choosing seed potatoes to soil prep and spacing, this potato planting guide will set you up for success. Potatoes are one of the most rewarding crops you can grow, but planting them correctly makes all the difference. In this episode, I walk you through exactly what to do before planting day, including how to choose the right seed potatoes, whether to chit them, and how to prepare your soil. I'll also share what's worked in my garden over the years, including mistakes I've made so you can avoid them. free download: Seasonal Garden Task List Know what to do each month—no more guessing. https://journeywithjill.net/seasonal-task-list Key Takeaways Choose certified seed potatoes to protect your soil and improve yields Match potato varieties to your cooking goals and growing season Prep soil with organic matter and balanced fertilizer Plant at the right depth and spacing for strong growth Use mulch or light hilling to protect developing potatoes Resource Links Seasonal Garden Task List (free): https://journeywithjill.net/seasonal-task-list Connect: Newsletter: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Complete Garden Planner Plan and track your season with my all-in-one downloadable planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsor(s) for this Episode Garden in Minutes – Simplify your watering system with easy-to-use garden grids. Use code Jill for 7% off: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes Cross County Nursery – A trusted source for quality plants to support your garden success. Wood Prairie Family Farm – Certified organic seed potatoes in a wide range of varieties. Use code JILL5 for 5% off: http://journeywithjill.net/woodprairie As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Struggling to get carrot seeds to sprout or size up well? In this episode, you'll learn how to plant carrots with better timing, spacing, watering, and thinning so they grow straight, sweet, and strong. If carrot germination has felt unpredictable, this step-by-step planting guide will help you start with confidence. Carrots can feel simple until you plant them and wait... and wait... and still see bare soil. In today's Planting Day episode, I'm walking you through exactly what to do before and after sowing carrot seeds so you can improve germination, avoid common mistakes, and set yourself up for a better harvest. We'll cover timing, soil prep, spacing, moisture, thinning, and what to expect in those first few weeks so you know your carrot planting is on track. Free Download: Carrot Quick-Start Growing Guide Get my Free Carrot Quick-Start Growing Guide and quickly learn how to grow straight, sweet carrots in your garden without the guesswork. You'll also get complimentary access to my Beginner's Garden Resource Vault. http://journeywithjill.net/carrot-guide Key Takeaways Learn the best time to plant carrots in spring Improve germination with better soil moisture Choose carrot varieties that perform reliably Thin seedlings the right way for bigger roots Know what early carrot growth should look like Resource Links Carrot Quick-Start Growing Guide: http://journeywithjill.net/carrot-guide Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Complete Garden Planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Ready for a simple system to plan and track? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. Sponsors for this Episode Cozy Earth Cozy Earth offers ultra-soft bamboo sheets, pajamas, and skincare products designed for everyday comfort. Use code CozyJill to get up to 20% off at CozyEarth.com. Discount terms may vary. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Garden in Minutes Garden in Minutes offers garden grids and watering systems that make spacing and irrigation simpler in raised beds. Use code Jill for 7% off: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Spring weather can make planting decisions confusing. Should you plant your cool season crops now, or wait a little longer? In this episode, you'll learn how to decide the best time to plant lettuce, broccoli, carrots, peas, and other cool season crops with confidence. If you've ever worried about planting too early or too late, this practical guide will help you read the signals your garden is giving you. free download: Garden Cheat Sheet New to edible gardening or restarting after a break? Download my free Garden Cheat Sheet—a simple path to plan, plant, and stay on track. https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/when-to-plant/ Key Takeaways Understand the temperature range cool season crops prefer Learn how frost forecasts influence planting decisions Know the soil temperature thresholds for direct sowing seeds Avoid common mistakes with soggy soil and early planting Gain confidence in reading weather patterns in your own garden Connect Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Complete Garden Planner Plan and track your season with my all-in-one downloadable garden planner. https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsor(s) for This Episode Garden in Minutes Garden in Minutes offers a simple irrigation system designed specifically for raised beds, helping you water efficiently and consistently without the hassle of hand watering. Use code Jill for 7% off your order. http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Cross Country Nursery Cross Country Nursery is a plant nursery that helps gardeners get quality plants delivered so you can get growing faster and with less guesswork. Use code JILL  for 15% off your order. http://www.chileplants.com/jill    Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Struggling with indoor seed starting because your seedlings stopped growing? Are they stuck with only seed leaves, turning yellow, or just frozen in time? In this episode, I share how a simple seed starting mix mistake stalled my broccoli, cabbage, and lettuce—and exactly how I fixed it. Free download: Seed Starting Troubleshooting Guide Clear, simple fixes for common indoor seed starting problems. Download it here → http://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-troubleshooting-guide After 13 years of starting my own seeds, I made a mistake I didn't even realize—until my brassicas refused to grow for nearly two weeks. What looked like a nitrogen issue turned out to be something completely different. In this episode, I walk you through what happened, how I diagnosed the problem, and the step-by-step seedling triage that brought them back to life. If your seedlings are stunted, pale, or just not progressing like they should, you're not alone. And in many cases, you can fix it quickly. Key Takeaways How to identify true stunted growth vs. normal slow growth The most common seed starting mix mistake beginners make Why roots need oxygen just as much as water When transplanting seedlings can actually save them How to research potting mix labels before you buy Resource Links Seed Starting Troubleshooting Guide (free): http://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-troubleshooting-guide Lettuce Quick-Start Growing Guide (free): http://journeywithjill.net/lettuce-guide Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Sponsor for This Episode Garden in Minutes makes simple, efficient irrigation systems that take the guesswork out of watering. If you're tired of dragging hoses or wondering whether you're overwatering or underwatering, their systems make it easy to water evenly and consistently. Use code Jill for 7% off. Shop here: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes Cozy Earth creates premium bedding and loungewear designed for comfort and quality. Their bamboo sheet sets are incredibly soft, breathable, and temperature-regulating—perfect for getting better rest during busy garden seasons. Visit Cozy Earth to shop their products and check current promotions. Use code COZYJILL for a discount up to 20% off on your purchase (discount amount may vary based on current sales). Shop here: http://cozyearth.com    As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Struggling to get a big potato harvest, especially in heat or grow bags? In this episode, Jim and Caleb from Wood Prairie Family Farm break down what actually matters for growing potatoes successfully. You'll learn practical potato growing tips for choosing seed, watering, fall planting, and avoiding common beginner mistakes. If you've ever felt unsure about which potatoes to plant, how to store them, or why your yields were disappointing, this conversation will clear it up. We talk certified seed vs. grocery store potatoes, how to think about short-season varieties (especially in the South), what makes fall potatoes possible, and the biggest "make-or-break" factors when growing in containers. Wood Prairie Family Farm (Seed Potatoes) Certified seed potatoes shipped at the right time for your region, plus grow bags and organic potato fertilizer. Use code JILL5 for 5% off: http://journeywithjill.net/woodprairie. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. free download: Seed Starting Guide Start seeds with confidence. Know exactly when and how to begin. https://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-guide Key Takeaways Start with certified seed potatoes to reduce disease risk and improve yields. For hot climates or tight windows, choose short-season varieties to finish before heat or frost. In grow bags, watering is the #1 success factor (often 3x per week). Better soil and the right fertility plan can increase yield without adding complexity. Mulch strategies (even cardboard + straw) can reduce weeds and help moderate soil moisture. Sponsor for this Episode Organic REV Organic fertilizer blends made for gardeners who want healthier plants and better harvests. Use code JILL10 for 10% off: http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Garden in Minutes A simple, efficient watering system that helps you stay consistent (especially in summer). Use code Jill for 7% off: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Resource Links Free Seed Starting Guide: https://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-guide Connect with Jill Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Ready for a simple system to plan and track? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Struggling to know whether you can trust AI for garden planning? Wondering if ChatGPT can actually help you grow better vegetables—or if it might quietly steer you wrong? In this episode, we talk through the real benefits and real risks of using AI in your vegetable garden. Dream to Garden – Plan your garden faster with AI tools without giving up your own judgment. Learn the why behind your planting decisions and get step-by-step guidance plus custom GPT support. 👉 Learn more here: https://journeywithjill.net/dreamtogarden In this episode, I share what's worked in my own garden using AI and where I've had to push back. From comparing seed varieties and troubleshooting pests to setting planting dates, AI can save serious time. But it can also give confident, incorrect answers—especially about timing. I'll show you how to use AI wisely so it becomes a tool, not a crutch. Key Takeaways How AI actually gets its information (and why it can "hallucinate") Practical ways to use AI for variety comparisons and pest ID Why planting dates are the biggest danger zone How to write better prompts for more accurate answers Why you must understand your climate before trusting AI Resource Links 🌱 Get Complimentary Access to My Resource Vault Grow more food with less overwhelm using printable charts, guides, and planning tools. http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads 📬 Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ 🎙 Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Ready for a simple system to plan and track your garden? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsors for This Episode Organic Rev – I use this to support strong root growth and healthy soil biology. Use code JILL10 for 10% off at http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Garden in Minutes – A simple, effective irrigation solution that makes watering your raised beds easy and efficient. Use code Jill for 7% off at http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Most gardens get planted once and then limp along until frost. But what if one garden bed could give you three strong harvests in a single season? In this episode, you'll learn how simple succession planting can help you grow more food without adding more space. Free Training: Productive Garden Masterclass Learn how to plan your garden so beds stay productive all season long, without overwhelm. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/masterclass  Key Takeaways How to plan three-season successions before the season starts Why knowing when crops come out matters as much as when they go in Real-life succession examples you can adapt to your climate Common mistakes that limit harvests and how to avoid them Sponsor(s) for This Episode Organic Rev Organic Rev's Superior Seed Start Bundles support healthy germination and strong seedlings from day one. Save 10% with code JILL10 → http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Garden in Minutes Garden in Minutes makes watering simple with raised beds, garden grids, and modular systems designed to work together. Save 7% with code JILL → http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Resource Links Productive Garden Masterclass (Free Training): Learn how to plan your garden so each bed stays productive all season long. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/masterclass Beginner's Garden Resource Vault (Free): A growing library of guides, charts, and tools to help you garden with clarity and confidence. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads Friday Emails (Newsletter): Weekly encouragement, practical tips, and seasonal reminders. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup Dream to Garden (Paid Course – Enrollment Open): Step-by-step garden planning for your space, timing, and climate. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/dreamtogarden  Recommended Brands & Products: 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and feedback from others. Your results may differ depending on your location and growing conditions. Always check local resources. Some links may be affiliate links.

Companion planting can feel confusing fast. Charts, rules, and exceptions make it hard to know what really works. But what if you already understand companion planting better than you think? The foods you naturally cook together often grow well together, too. In this episode, I share a simple way to think about companion planting by looking at familiar kitchen pairings. Tomatoes and basil. Onions and peppers. Carrots and celery. When you connect what belongs together on your plate with what thrives together in the garden, companion planting starts to feel intuitive instead of overwhelming. free download: The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault Get complimentary access to a library of printable charts, guides, and tools to help you grow food with less overwhelm. 👉 http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads Key Takeaways Why familiar food pairings often translate to successful garden companions How cool-season and warm-season crops affect timing and placement Practical examples of companion planting that actually work Which plant pairings to avoid and why How to simplify garden planning without memorizing charts Resource Links Register for the Productive Garden Masterclass: http://journeywithjill.net/masterclass  Beginner's Garden Resource Vault (free): http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Complete Garden Planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsors for This Episode Organic Rev I use Organic Rev to support strong roots and healthy soil. Use code JILL10 for 10% off. 👉 http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Struggling with lettuce that bolts, turns bitter, or barely grows? You're not alone—and you're not doing anything wrong. In this episode, I walk you through how to grow salad greens for months using the right varieties, timing, and planting rhythm. If growing your own salad greens has felt confusing or inconsistent, this episode will help you simplify the process. I break down the difference between lettuces and brassica greens, explain when to direct sow vs. start seeds indoors, and show you how I plan my plantings so I can harvest salads for weeks at a time. Free Download: Spring Salad Garden Planning Calendar Borrow my exact spring planting rhythm for salad greens—what to plant, when to plant, and how to adjust it for your climate. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/springsaladgarden Key Takeaways Why lettuce and brassica greens behave differently in your garden How planting variety extends your salad harvest When to direct sow vs. start lettuce indoors How seasonal temperature shifts affect flavor and bolting The importance of staggered planting for continuous harvests Resource Links Spring Salad Garden Planning Calendar (free): https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/springsaladgarden Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden Sponsor for This Episode Organic Rev I use Rev to support strong root development and healthy plants throughout the season. Use code JILL10 for 10% off. 👉 http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Struggling with seed starting failures even when you follow the rules? It might not be your lights, watering, or timing. In this episode, we break down seed starting mix and why the wrong soil can sabotage seedlings before they ever get going. I'm joined by Joe Lamp'l, and we're digging into peat-based mixes, coconut coir problems, wetting agents, and the simple moisture mistakes most gardeners make indoors. Free Download: Seed Starting Guide Confident seed starting without the guesswork—what to start, when to start, and how to do it successfully. https://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-guide Key Takeaways Most seed starting failures trace back to the growing medium, not the gardener Peat-based mixes work well, but moisture management matters Coconut coir can fail if it's not properly washed and buffered Overwatering causes more problems than underwatering Seed trays should feel light before watering again Resource Links Seed Starting Guide (free): https://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-guide Seed Starting Troubleshooting Guide: http://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-troubleshooting-guide Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/podcast Sponsor for This Episode Organic Rev – I use Rev to support healthy root growth and reduce transplant shock. Use code JILL10 for 10% off: http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from feedback I receive from gardeners in different climates. Your results may vary. Always check your local extension service for region-specific guidance. Some links may be affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Buying seeds is one of the most exciting parts of gardening—but it's also where many gardeners overspend without realizing it. If you've ever wondered whether seed packets are really the best deal, this episode will help you rethink how you buy seeds. You'll learn when buying a larger seed quantity actually saves money, when it doesn't, and how to choose the right size for your garden. If seed catalogs feel overwhelming, this conversation will help you slow down, compare smarter, and spend less. Free Download: Garden Cheat Sheet A simple, step-by-step plan to help you know what to plant and when—without the overwhelm. https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/when-to-plant/ Key Takeaways Some crops are cheaper when you size up, others are not Greens, beans, peas, and cover crops often make sense to buy in larger quantities Tomatoes, peppers, and brassicas usually do not need bulk buying Comparing price per seed or gram can save you real money Having backup seed reduces stress when things go wrong Resource Links Garden Cheat Sheet (free): https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/when-to-plant/ Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden Sponsor for This Episode Organic Rev I use Organic Rev to support strong root growth and healthy soil biology. Use code JILL10 for 10% off your order. http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.