The Beginner's Garden with Jill McSheehy

Struggling with garden pests and wondering if Sevin Dust is the answer? Before you reach for this popular insecticide, it's important to understand what it does to pests, pollinators, and your garden ecosystem. In this episode, you'll learn the truth about Sevin Dust, carbaryl, organic pest control, and safer ways to manage garden insects. Free Download: Companion Planting for Pest Control Discover which plant pairings naturally help keep harmful insects away from your crops. http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest Key Takeaways Learn how Sevin Dust has changed over the years and why that matters. Understand the differences between carbaryl and the current Sevin Dust formulation. Discover the risks Sevin Dust poses to pollinators, beneficial insects, and soil life. Learn why many organic gardeners avoid broad-spectrum insecticides. Explore natural pest-control alternatives that work with your garden ecosystem. Chapters 00:00 – Why I finally talked about Sevin Dust 01:09 – The garden tour that sparked this episode 03:13 – Why I use diatomaceous earth instead 06:22 – What Sevin Dust actually is 09:30 – The surprising ingredient change 13:18 – How carbaryl kills insects 16:43 – Why it works so well 19:02 – Why some countries banned carbaryl 20:42 – Human health concerns explained 23:57 – Effects on bees and beneficial insects 26:12 – Why organic gardeners avoid it 28:40 – The new Sevin Dust formulation 31:00 – Natural vs. synthetic pyrethroids 33:32 – Does the new formula work better? 36:43 – Risks to pollinators and aquatic life 40:05 – Can organic gardeners use it? Related Podcast Episodes Attracting Beneficial Bugs to Your Garden with Jessica Walliser https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/235-attracting-beneficial-bugs-to-your-garden-with-jessica-walliser Plant Diseases, Critters, and Other Garden Problems with Susan Mulvihill, Author of The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/314-plant-diseases-critters-and-other-garden-problems-with-susan-mulvihill-author-of-the-vegetable-garden-problem-solver-handbook How to Minimize Pest Damage in an Organic Garden with Susan Mulvihill https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/196-how-to-minimize-pest-damage-in-an-organic-garden-susan-mulvihill Preparing for Pests https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/242-preparing-for-pests Resource Links Companion Planting for Pest Control (Free Download) http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest Good Bug Bad Bug ID Chart (Free Download) https://journeywithjill.net/goodandbadbugs Friday Emails (Newsletter) https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@JourneywithJill Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden Podcast Archive https://journeywithjill.net/podcast Complete Garden Planner Plan and track your garden season with Jill's all-in-one planner. 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 with cabbage worms, bolting brassicas, or disappointing cauliflower heads? In this episode, you'll learn practical spring garden lessons from my own Zone 8a garden experience. I'm sharing what worked with cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, onions, and companion planting so you can grow stronger cool-season crops next spring with more confidence. Free Download: Broccoli, Cauliflower & Cabbage Quick-Start Growing Guide Learn how to grow productive brassicas with better timing, pest protection, and harvest success. http://journeywithjill.net/broccoli-guide Key Takeaways Learn how different cauliflower varieties performed in spring heat Discover which cabbage varieties were most productive and flavorful Hear what helped reduce cabbage worm pressure naturally Learn how crimson clover worked as a companion planting mulch Understand how late freezes affected cool-season crops Chapters 00:00 – Spring garden reflections 02:15 – Why cauliflower intimidated me 06:45 – Choosing better cauliflower varieties 09:05 – How to blanch cauliflower heads 13:20 – Preventing cabbage worm damage 15:10 – Comparing cabbage varieties 20:10 – Testing crimson clover with broccoli 24:40 – Lessons from a late freeze 26:00 – Growing onions through winter Resources Herb Workshop (grab the replay here): http://journeywithjill.net/herb-workshop Broccoli, Cauliflower & Cabbage Quick-Start Growing Guide (free): http://journeywithjill.net/broccoli-guide Companion Planting for Pest Control (free): http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest Good Bug Bad Bug ID Chart (free): https://journeywithjill.net/goodandbadbugs 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 Complete Garden Planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Link to cauliflower recipe: https://alexandracooks.com/2018/03/06/roasted-cauliflower-skhug-lemony-yogurt-sauce/ Sale Information: Garden in Minutes Sale: https://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes Epic Gardening Memorial Day Sale: https://shop.epicgardening.com/JOURNEYWITHJILL 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.

You spent the money on herbs. You watched them grow. Now what? There's a whole season of flavor sitting in your garden, and most of it never makes it to your kitchen. This episode walks you through how to actually use what you grow — fresh, dried, frozen, and blended — from the first oregano harvest in spring all the way through cilantro in winter. Free Download: Herbs Quick Reference Chart A handy cheat sheet for growing and using your favorite kitchen herbs. http://journeywithjill.net/herbchart 🌿 Live Workshop — Everyday Kitchen Herbs (Tuesday, May 19th) Join Jill live in her garden as she walks you through 12 kitchen herbs — growing, harvesting, and using each one. You can ask questions in the chat in real time. Register here → https://journeywithjill.net/herb-workshop Key Takeaways Harvest perennial herbs like oregano, mint, and thyme in spring when they're at their peak — before summer heat sets in Preserve flavor by storing dried herbs whole in jars, then grinding only when you're ready to use them Basil pesto freezes beautifully in silicone trays, giving you homegrown flavor all winter long Cilantro does best when you let it self-seed and volunteer — your fall and winter harvest will be stronger for it You don't have to do all of this at once — pick one herb, one method, and start there Resource Links Free Download: Herbs Quick Reference Chart → http://journeywithjill.net/herbchart Everyday Kitchen Herbs Workshop (May 19th, live) → https://journeywithjill.net/herb-workshop Connect with Jill: 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/ Oregano vs. Marjoram — What's the Difference? https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/338-oregano-vs-marjoram Ready for a simple system to plan and track your whole garden? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy → https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsors for This Episode Garden in Minutes — Easy-to-install garden bed irrigation that takes the guesswork out of watering. Use code Jill at checkout for 7% off regular-priced items → http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes 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 grow healthy cucumbers that actually produce? You're not alone—cucumbers can be tricky if you don't get a few key things right. In this episode, you'll learn how to grow cucumbers successfully with simple, practical tips you can use right away. Whether you're growing in raised beds, containers, or small spaces, this will help you get a better harvest. Cucumbers are one of the most rewarding crops to grow, but they can also be frustrating when plants struggle, stop producing, or take over your space. In this episode, I walk you through what's worked in my garden when it comes to growing cucumbers—from choosing where to plant them to keeping them productive all season long. I also share how vertical growing methods, including systems like GreenStalk, can help you manage space more efficiently. Key Takeaways Choose the right setup for healthy cucumber growth Use vertical support to improve airflow and yield Grow cucumbers successfully in small or large spaces Keep plants productive with simple maintenance Avoid common issues that limit harvest Resource Links The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault (free): http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads 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 a simple system: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Sponsor(s) for this Episode GreenStalk Vertical Planter – A simple way to grow vertically and maximize your space, perfect for cucumbers and other vining crops in small areas. Get $50 off all planters during their sale through May 11th, plus use code JILL10 for $10 off a $75 purchase. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/greenstalk Garden in Minutes – An easy-to-install watering system that helps you keep your cucumber plants consistently watered without the hassle. Use code Jill for 7% off your order. 👉 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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

Feeling excited about garden planning but worried about burnout before summer even hits? If last season felt overwhelming, disappointing, or heavier than you expected, this episode will help you reset. You'll learn how to plan a garden that fits your time, energy, space, and season of life so gardening feels peaceful, productive, and enjoyable in 2026. Free Training: Before You Sow Learn the four seed-growing principles every gardener needs to know before planting anything. This mini course walks you through when to start seeds indoors, when to buy transplants, and when to direct sow. Free through January 19. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/before-you-sow Key Takeaways Why garden burnout often comes from planning, not pests or weather How to match your garden to your real time and energy Why smaller gardens are often more productive and enjoyable How your season of life should shape what you grow Questions that clarify what truly matters in your garden this year Chapters 00:00 – Why garden plans fail 02:10 – Planning before seed catalogs 04:30 – When gardens become overwhelming 07:45 – Learning from scaling back 10:55 – Is it worth growing this crop 13:40 – Time realities in gardening 15:55 – Physical vs emotional energy 19:30 – Harvest decisions and burnout 22:10 – You need less space than you think 25:15 – Making small spaces productive 27:30 – How life seasons affect gardens 31:05 – Choosing a clear garden focus 34:15 – What a right-sized garden feels like 37:20 – Three crops clarity question 39:10 – Grounding your 2026 garden plan 41:30 – Seed starting basics beginners miss 44:10 – Free Before You Sow training Resource Links Free Training: Before You Sow https://journeywithjill.net/before-you-sow 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 GreenStalk Vertical Planters Grow more food in less space with vertical planters that make gardening easier to manage. Use code JILL10 for $10 off a $75 purchase. 👉 https://journeywithjill.net/greenstalk 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.

Struggling to figure out how to turn your love of gardening into something you can share—or even sell? In this episode, Sarah walks us through how she built a thriving cut flower business for her local farmers market. You'll hear the practical steps she took, what she wishes she knew sooner, and how she manages growing for both beauty and profit. If you've wondered whether you could do something similar, this conversation gives you hope and a clear starting point. free download: Garden Cheat Sheet A simple, step-by-step starter plan to help you begin your garden with confidence. https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/when-to-plant/ Key Takeaways Why selling flowers can be more approachable than selling vegetables How Sarah planned her first year—and what she'd change The importance of bloom times, succession planting, and crop selection How working with a partner shaped the business What she's learned from customers and community at the farmers market Chapters 00:00 – Why Sarah chose cut flowers 04:30 – Planning the first flower season 06:20 – Bloom timing and succession basics 10:40 – Overwintering and cool-season flowers 13:40 – Direct sowing vs. plugs 17:30 – Working with a business partner 21:05 – What keeps her motivated 22:50 – The hardest parts of flower farming 25:00 – Planning mistakes in year one 27:45 – Profitable vs. low-profit crops 36:30 – Using plant starts to build early customers 39:10 – Adding microgreens for income 43:40 – What farmers markets taught her about people 47:00 – How to get started selling at a market Resource Links Free Garden Cheat Sheet: https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/when-to-plant/ Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Soft Paid Mention: Complete Garden Planner – A simple system to plan and track your season. 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 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.