Starting a garden can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be overwhelming for new gardeners. With so many plant options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best starter plants for new gardeners. These plants are easy to care for, beautiful, and perfect for beginners.
1. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are one of the easiest annual flowers to grow from seed and are a great beginner plant for adults and children alike. They can be direct-sown and will shoot upwards quickly, with some varieties reaching soaring heights. Plant them in a spot where you won’t mind having sunflowers year after year, as the plants can reseed aggressively.
2. French Marigolds
French marigolds are an annual that belongs in every garden. All they need is a sunny spot to grow, making them the perfect plant for beginners. Resistant to deer and rabbits, these slow-growing tidy plants are non-invasive. They are easy plants that don’t need much care at all, making them a perfect starter for any beginner gardener. Just keep an eye out for slugs.
3. Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are easy to grow, with an abundant harvest you can snack on while you pick. They’re great for containers on your patio, porch, or fire escape, too. If you’re new to gardening, it’s tempting to try growing your favorite heirloom veggies—but some of those tomatoes can be tricky. Cherry tomatoes, however, are easy to grow.
4. Basil
Few moments are as satisfying as your first bite of a garden-grown tomato or making a batch of pesto with basil you harvested yourself. Basil is a bit of a wimp when it comes to cooler weather. If you’re going to grow it outside, wait until the temperatures are consistently above 50˚F. The aromatic herb grows well both inside (with grow lights) and outside. Basil continues to be a mainstay in many gardens.
5. Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus are some of the best cottage garden plants, and they’re one of the best plants for beginners, too. For early flowers, you can start the seeds off indoors in March or April. Pot them on once they’ve grown two leaves. When the weather is warmer in May, harden the seedlings off by popping them on your patio for around a week, before planting them into the ground or your chosen container. They like sunny spots in moist, well-drained soil.
6. African Daisies
Full of color and simple to grow, African daisies are a great choice if you’re after the best plants for beginners. They like full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and can handle a bit of neglect. They are perfect for garden beds, borders, and containers.
7. Peppers
Peppers are a great plant for beginner gardeners because they don’t need much in the way of care or maintenance, they don’t have many pests that like to bother them, and you’ll find an incredible variety of options out there. They like full sun and well-drained soil. They are perfect for garden beds, borders, and containers.
Starting a garden can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right plants. These easy-to-grow plants are perfect for beginners and will provide you with beautiful blooms and delicious produce. Remember to check the label for specific planting instructions, and that the hardiness rating is suitable for your region. With a little bit of care and attention, you’ll soon be on your way to a thriving garden.
