Start a garden notebook! As you look through those tempting seed catalogues and are trying to decide what to plant this year, consider starting a small notebook to keep track of your plans and purchases.

The best way to have a beautiful and productive garden is to make notes each year of your most successful and less-successful efforts. Next spring, you’ll be happy to have the information on hand.

Drawing a quick planting map of your garden in the notebook will help you decide how many different types of plants you can grow. Another good idea is to order your seeds with a friend, neighbor, or fellow gardener - or check out seed swap events. It saves money on shipping, and by sharing your purchases, you can double the number of varieties you can try!