Gardening course for beginners: grow a small garden that thrives

By the end you can

• Map sun, shade, wind and damp spots and find your climate guide
• Choose plants that suit your conditions, checking AI suggestions locally
• Set up a small container or bed garden that drains well
• Water at the right time and amount, and follow local water rules
• Make and use compost, and handle potting mix, sun and pests safely

Downloads

• Gardening starter planner .docxA site-audit sheet, plant shortlist, first-garden plan and shopping list, a two-week watering log, compost and safety checklists, a pest triage card and a season planner, with Sam’s worked example.

Rules by country

Australia

Aspect flips: north-facing spots are the sunniest. Queensland Health and NSW Health: wet potting mix, wear gloves and a P2 dust mask, wash your hands, follow the bag’s warnings. WaterNSW: water early, check soil first, follow local water restrictions. healthdirect: slip, slop, slap, seek and slide.

United Kingdom

RHS: start small, get to know your plot through the seasons, work with your soil (right plant, right place), and plant borders in spring or autumn. South-facing walls are the warmest.

United States

Use the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (search by zip code) to check which perennials suit your area. EPA: compost with more browns than greens; read pesticide labels, never use more than directed, store in original containers, and ask your local cooperative extension office.

Learning time

About 1 hour of learning. May count towards your CPD or professional development; check your professional body's rules. Estimated from reading time, exercises, quick checks and downloads.