Starting Your Garden in February and March in South Dakota [STEPS

While we have a warming pattern in South Dakota, those who aspire to have a thriving garden this summer can start planning now. My family loves to garden and the fruits of our labor (pun intended) is so very rewarding. As we knock on March's door there are some things we can do to get moving on that perfect garden now.

1. Prepare the dirt: During mild days with no snow, clear the garden of debris that accumulated all winter. Even though it's too early to plant seeds outdoors, clear the vines, stems, roots, or old vegetation that was not removed before winter began. It feels good to get out and begin!

2. Start seeds indoors: February and March is a great time to start seeds indoors for plants that can be transplanted later. Plant and place near windows with lots of sunshine. If you don't have a window with sun pouring through, you may need a growing light on for about 12 hours per day. Here are some ideas to begin now:

Tomatoes
Peppers
Eggplants
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Herbs (like basil and parsley)

Begin with good dirt: I would suggest a good seed-starting mix for your containers. Miracle Gro is a great blend.

3. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not too wet and soggy. Using a spray bottle can help prevent overwatering while allowing for gentle moisture.

4. Labeling: Kids will have fun with this. And if they misspell broccoli, all the better :) Label your seedlings with the plant name and date sown to keep track of what you’ve planted.

5. Time to wait out the weather. According to the Seedtime app, South Dakota is pretty much free of freeze warnings by the first week of May. Then, simply transplant your young vegetation and have fun!

Let us know if you have any more early garden starting tips in the comments of the social media page you found this on. Good luck!