The Garden Journal

Guides, Tips &
Growing Wisdom

In-depth articles written for Connecticut home gardeners — from first-time raised bed builders to experienced growers looking to level up their soil game.

Building a raised garden bed in Connecticut backyard garden
Beginner Guide · Featured

How to Build Your First Raised Garden Bed: A Complete Guide for New England Gardeners

Raised beds are the single best investment a new gardener can make. Better drainage, warmer soil, fewer weeds — here's everything you need to get started this spring.

Sarah Caldwell · May 2, 2025 · 10 min read
Fresh herbs growing in pots on indoor windowsill
Herbs

The 10 Best Herbs to Grow Indoors Year-Round

A sunny windowsill and the right varieties are all it takes to have fresh herbs every day of the year.

Sarah Caldwell · Apr 18, 2025 · 8 min
Healthy garden soil with organic matter for vegetable growing
Soil Health

Understanding Your Soil: pH, Nutrients & Amendments

Great gardens start underground. Learn to read and improve your soil before you plant a single seed.

James Roote · Apr 5, 2025 · 9 min
Companion planted vegetable and herb garden growing together
Companion Planting

Which Plants Grow Best Together — And Which to Keep Apart

Strategic plant pairing reduces pests, boosts yields, and makes your garden self-policing.

Sarah Caldwell · May 7, 2025 · 8 min
Garden compost pile with dark rich decomposed organic material
Composting

Hot Composting in 18 Days: The Berkeley Method

Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into rich, crumbly compost in under three weeks.

James Roote · Apr 28, 2025 · 9 min
Watering vegetable garden plants with hose in summer
Watering

How to Water Correctly: 7 Mistakes Most Gardeners Make

Overwatering kills more plants than drought. Learn the signs, the schedule, and the technique.

Sarah Caldwell · Apr 15, 2025 · 8 min
Straw mulch applied around vegetable plants in raised garden bed
Mulching

Best Mulch for Vegetable Gardens: Wood Chips vs. Straw vs. Leaves

The right mulch retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and improves soil over time.

Sarah Caldwell · Mar 30, 2025 · 8 min
Ripe red tomatoes growing on vine in Connecticut vegetable garden
Tomatoes

Growing Tomatoes in Connecticut: A Complete Season-Long Guide

Connecticut's short season requires smart variety selection and careful timing. Here's how to succeed.

James Roote · Mar 15, 2025 · 8 min
Organic pest control with companion plants and natural methods
Pest Control

Organic Pest Control: Protect Your Garden Without Chemicals

Identify real pest problems and respond effectively without reaching for synthetic pesticides.

Sarah Caldwell · Mar 1, 2025 · 8 min
Fall garden preparation adding compost to beds before winter
Seasonal Guide

Fall Garden Prep: Everything to Do Before the First Frost

What you do in fall determines how your garden performs next spring. Don't skip these steps.

James Roote · Feb 15, 2025 · 8 min