
What I Wish I Knew My First Year Gardening (PNW Beginner Guide)
New to gardening in Washington? Here are the biggest mistakes I made my first year—and what I wish I knew before I started.

Grow confidently in the Pacific Northwest.
Practical, seasonal guidance for real PNW gardens — cool springs, damp winters, dry summers, and imperfect soil included. Beginners welcome.
Updated regularly with seasonal advice, planting notes, and Pacific Northwest garden inspiration.
Seasonal guidance, practical how-tos, plant spotlights, and thoughtful experiments for Pacific Northwest gardens

New to gardening in Washington? Here are the biggest mistakes I made my first year—and what I wish I knew before I started.

Struggling plants? It might be the light. Learn how to understand full sun, part shade, and shade in your garden—especially in the Pacific Northwest.

Learn how to build a simple raised bed garden in the Pacific Northwest. Includes wood vs metal beds, where to place them, what soil to use, and easy crops for beginners.

Not sure what to buy at the garden center this spring? These easy plants thrive in Pacific Northwest gardens and are perfect for beginners.

Wondering what to plant in March in Washington State? A practical Pacific Northwest gardening guide covering vegetables, flowers, herbs, and trees you can plant now — indoors and out.

Learn how to start seeds indoors successfully in the Pacific Northwest. Simple beginner steps, lighting tips, soil advice, and common mistakes to avoid.

Start gardening in the Pacific Northwest with this foolproof weekend project: three easy pots—herbs, pollinators, and shade plants—with a shopping list, watering plan, and simple troubleshooting.

New to gardening in the PNW? These five easy, forgiving plants thrive in cool, rainy conditions and help beginner gardeners build confidence fast.

Learn how to read your garden space — understanding sun, shade, soil, and microclimates in the Pacific Northwest before you plant.